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LIBRARY 

OF   THK 

UNIVERSITY   OF   CALIFORNIA. 

GIKT    OF" 


MAXIMILIAN  I. 

A  CONFLICT  BETWEEN  THE  OLD  WORLD 
AND  THE  NEW. 


Tragedy  in  Four  Acts. 


FREDERICK  O.  LAYMAN. 


SAN  FRANCISCO,  1886. 

PRINTED    AS    A    MANUSCRIPT. 

[All  Rig/its  Reserved.} 


DRAMATIS  PERSONS. 


Mftt/V 


MAXIMILIAN,  Archduke  of  Austria;  later  Emperor  of  Mexico. 

DOCTOR  BASCH. 

FATHER  VISCHER. 

AGUIRRE,    \ 

CAMPOS,       ^>  Maximilian's  Ministers. 

LARES,         j 

MEJIA,  \ 

(Pronounce,  Me-hee-a).   I 

Ml  RAMON,  (~  Maximilian's  Generals. 

MARQUEZ, 

(Pronounce,  Mar-kes). 

LA  BASTIDA,  Archbishop  of  Mexico. 

ALMONTE. 

NAPOLEON  III.,  Emperor  of  France. 

DRUYN  DE  LHUYS,  Minister. 

LULU,  Prince  Imperial  of  France. 

BAZAINE,  French  Generalissimo. 

AGUILAR. 

JUAREZ,  President  of  the  Republic  of  Mexico. 

(Pronounce,  Huar-ez). 
PORFIRIO    DIAZ,  \ 

ARTEAGA,  f  juares?s  Generals. 

(Pronounce,  Ar-te-a-ga)      (  •* 

SALAZAR,  ) 

PRINCE  ITURBIDE. 

A  SCHOOLMASTER. 

EUGENIE,  Empress  of  France. 

CARLOTTA,  wife  of  Maximilian. 

DONNA  ARTEAGA,  the  General's  wife. 

DONNA  INEZ,  her  daughter,  betrothed  to  Salazar. 

PRINCESS  ITURBIDE. 

DONNA  MEJIA. 

Courtiers,  Peasants,  Soldiers,  Servants,  Workmen,  Etc. 


ACT    I. 

SCENE  I.     Library  in  the  Tuileries. 

NAPOLEON  III.     Later  his  Body  Servant. 

Napoleon  [seated  at  his  work  table]. 
That  is  the  plan,  arisen  from  the  haze 
Of  doubt  and  hesitation;  that  will  do. 
For  every  case  that  I  can  think  of  now 
I  plainly  see  my  way;  see  how  it  winds 
Through  difficulties,  failures  and  delays 
Until  it  leads  me  to  the  glorious  goal, 
And  for  the  unexpected  turns  of  fate 
I  see  a  by-way  for  a  safe  escape. 

Jean.     The  night  has  passed,  the  sun  is  rising  bright, 
And  yet  your  Majesty  has  had  no  rest. 
Indeed,  I  fear  the  public  welfare  is 
Too  dearly  bought  with  your  imperial  health. 

Napoleon.     Thanks,  good  old  Jean,  for  all  your  honest  care  ; 
But  work  that  ripens  and  promotes  our  plans 
Refreshes  more  than  dead  and  heavy  sleep; 
And  moderation,  both  in  sleep  and  meals, 
Gives  us  a  mental  strength  that  well  befits 
A  monarch  watching  over  Europe's  peace. 
I  feel  so  strong  to-day  that  with  this  hand 
I  could  destroy  and  crush  a  mighty  realm 
To  reconstruct  it  on  a  better  plan. 


[6] 

Jean  [he  extinguishes  the  light  and  opens  the  curtains  ]   aside. 
For  heaven's  sake  !  this  waking  over  night 
Is  just  what  causes  all  these  frightful  plans. 
Is  France  this  realm,  this  smoking  powder  keg, 
That  must  be  crushed  to  atoms  from  above, 
Before  they  blow  it  skyward  from  below; 
Or  is  it  but  poor,  suffering  Mexico 
That  now  for  months  has  cost  us  men  and  means, 
To  teach  the  savage  Indians  how  to  spell? 
What  do  I  care  !     I  dance  with  all  the  rest 
In  this  wild  chaos,  the  imperial  court, 
And,  taking  all  in  all,  I  can't  complain.  [Exit. 

Napoleon.     What  labyrinth  !     How  wonderful  the  threads 
Of  past  events  are  woven  into  one 
Mysterious  cloth  called  History;  that  wraps 
In  deep  oblivion  our  origin. 
The  poet's  bold  imagination  can 
Create  no  picture  half  so  strange  and  weird 
As  painted  by  the  hand  of  History. 
The  humble  lawyer's  son  an  emperor, 
Who  weds  a  princess;  conquers  mighty  realms 
And  lavishly  bestows  them  on  his  friends, 
While  he  rules  wisely  on  the  throne  of  France ; 
Then,  suddenly,  his  lucky  star  goes  down; 
Reverses  follow  him  at  every  step 
Until  a  prisoner  of  war  he  dies, 
Forgotten  and  alone  on  desert  isle. 
The  Moscow  cinders  barely  cease  to  glow — 
That  greatest  death-torch  of  the  greatest  man — 
When  wife  and  child  lie  mouldering  in  their  graves; 


[7  ] 

And  gone  is  all  the  power  of  his  kin ; — 

Until  in  me  the  dynasty  revives,  - 

A  wonderful  relation !     And  the  end — 

Ah !  how  I  wish  that  I  might  live  to  see.  [Sunshine. 

But  no!     Away  with  all  these  gloomy  thoughts, 

Wild  echoes  of  the  phantoms  of  the  night. 

Here !  Jean,  a  glass  of  wine,  my  very  best ! 

And  then  to  work  such  as  the  day  may  bring. 

\_He  drinks  the  wine.     Newspapers,  etc.,  are  brought  in. 

Looking  into  the  latter\. 
Still  criticising,  grumbling,  crying  out, 
Still  rattling  at  the  gates  of  government, 
And  where,  with  fear,  I  give  one  privilege, 
The  unrelenting  mob  demands  ten  more. 
No;  fullest  freedom  should  be  mine  alone, 
For,  like  the  wine  which  fortifies  the  wise 
And  strengthens  them  to  noble  words  and  deeds, 
But  drives  the  crowd  to  misery  and  crime; 
So,  likewise,  does  unguarded  liberty. 
Such  wine  of  freedom  multitudes  can  bear 
But  in  a  very  moderate  degree. 
What  were  those  bloody  revolutions  but 
Intoxication  caused  by  freedom's  wine  ? 
Then  the  Republic,  sober,  weak  and  dull, 
The  seedy  morning  of  that  freedom's  brawl— 
I  know  the  vaults,  built  in  the  far  off  west, 
Where  they  ferment  that  thrice  accursed  wine. 
Shopkeepers  are  they  all,  and  their  conceit — 
A  mercenary  people's  sovereignty- 
Is  punished  justly  by  fraternal  war. 


What  if  the  lucky  moment  had  arrived 
When  I  could  draw  advantage  from  their  plight, 
Forever  check  that  proud  republic's  strength, 
And  build  anew  a  throne  to  monarchy. 
Yes,  that  would  stop  the  ever  greedy  mouths, 
Of  editors — instead  of  freedom's  wine  — 


SCENE  II. 

EUGENIE.     NAPOLEON. 

Eugenie  [who  has  heard  the  last  words], 
Give  them  an  opiate  draft  of  France's  gloire  ; 
The  slumbering  man  is  managed  easily, 
While  the  intoxicated  will  revolt ; 
The  pupil  bows  before  the  master  mind. 

Napoleon.     Ah,  excellent,  my  well  instructed  queen 
And  very  worthy  partner  of  my  throne ! 
How  did  you  rest;  and  how  is  our  good  prince? 

Eugenie.     The  prince  is  well  and  he  will  soon  be  here. 
What  is  the  news?     \Shc points  to  a  map  of  Mexico  which  lies 
on  his  desk  at  the  left,  seating  herself  to  the  right '.] 

Napoleon  [going  to  and  fro].     The  very  best,  madame. 
In  Mexico  the  troops  have  great  success; 
And  Juarez  yields,  the  wily  fox  gives  in. 
I  wish  we  did  as  well  in  Austria ! 
There  is  no  better  head  for  that  new  state, 
Than  Archduke  Maximilian  would  make. 
I  do  not  see  why  he  should  hesitate. 
[Ironically.']     He  was  the  choice  of  Mexico's  free  men. 


[  9] 

They  offer  an  imperial  crown.     And  he, 
Instead  of  seizing  it  with  outstretched  hands, 
Demands  to  hear  once  more  the  people's  voice ! 
For  what  again  this  idle  puppet  play — 
At  least — I  mean — the  play  with  votes  of  men 
Who  cannot  always  be  relied  upon. 


SCENE    III. 

The  same.     LULU. 

Lulu.     Papa,  Papa!  can  I  go  riding  now? 
Napoleon.    My  darling  child!    No.    When  your  work  is  done. 

Eugenie.     I  think  'tis  calculation  in  the  Prince, 
He  wants  to  free  himself  from  all  reproach 
And  bind  your  troops  more  firmly  to  his  throne. 

Lulu.     Can  I  go  now! 

Napoleon.  No,  no,  my  dearest  boy. 

When  you  have  learned  your  lesson;  not  before. 
[To  her.}     No.     I  believe  he  has  a  noble  heart; 
He  is  not  shrewd,  but  has  good  common  sense; 
He  knows  the  world,  yet  is  a  dreamer,  too. 
All  that  just  makes  him  serve  my  purpose  well. 
\To  the  child.']     Don't  touch  the  things  upon  the  table,  son. 
\To  her.]     The  second  delegation,  just  arrived 
From  Mexico,  will  be  received  to-day, 
And  sent  to  Miramare  with  my  pledge. 

Eugenie.     May  I  be  present? 

Napoleon.  Certainly,  madame. 


[     10] 

You  know  how  much  I  value  your  advice, 
And  doubly  where  the  clergy  is  concerned. 
Tis  queer  that  priests  and  women  should  agree; 
For  pretty  women  shun  all  serious  work, 
And  priests  should  hate  whatever  smacks  of  love. 

Eugenie.     O,  Sire,  it  ill  becomes  a  noble  prince, 
To  joke  and  laugh  at  our  most  sacred  faith. 

Napoleon.     I  do  not  laugh,  but  wonder  why  it  is. 
Well,  well;  the  striving  pupil  may,  in  time, 
Rule  wiser  than  the  master  does  to-day. 
Now  go;  perfect  your  toilet,  and  be  sure, 
You  choose  a  dress  to  please  the  bishop's  taste. 

\Exit  Eugenie. 

SCENE    IV. 

LULU.      NAPOLEON. 

Lulu.     Papa,  what  is  that  here?     [He  climbs  on  a  chair  and 
looks  at  the  map.  ] 

Napoleon.  That  city  there? 

Why  you  should  tell  your  father  what  it  is, 
If  you  had  studied  your  geography. 

Lulu.     O,  there!   it  says,  I  think,  Me-x-i-co. 
Napoleon.     Well,  now  you  see 

Lulu.  Is  that  the  town 

That  they  will  call  "  New  Moscow  "  after  this? 

Napoleon  \angrily\. 
What  do  you  mean!     Where  do  you  hear  such  talk? 


Lulu  [frightened], 

The  Marshal's  son,  with  whom  I  played  last  night; 
He  saw  it  in  a  journal,  so  he  said. 

Napoleon.     Such  papers  are  not  made  for  boys  like  you ; 
Devote  yourselves  to  good  instructive  books. 
Go,  go  my  son,  and  let  those  things  alone. 

Lulu.     O,  Papa,  do  not  scold.  [Exit. 

Napoleon.  New  Moscow?     Hm! 

SCENE  V. 

The  Tuileries.     Throne  Room. 

Servants  and  Workmen. 
ist  Servant.     Well,  are  you  ready,  for  your  time  is  up? 

Carpenter  [at  work  on  the  throne]. 
Yes,  yes.     I'll  draw  the  velvet  over  here 
And  nothing  will  be  seen  of  hole  or  spot, 
There — I  have  done. 

2d  Servant.  You  call  that  honest  work, 

To  cover  up  what  ought  to  be  repaired? 

Carpenter.     From  olden  times,  the  purple  covered  up. 
So  many  little  rotten  spots  and  things — 

ist  Servant.     Man,  are  you  mad  to  talk  like  that  at  court ! 
And  is  it  proper  for  a  journeyman, 
Who  made  a  pretty  penny  near  the  throne  ? 

Carpenter.     O,  that  is  quite  original.     You  see 
I  am  a  Frenchman  of  the  rough,  old  school 
And  do  not  creep,  where  I  must  make  my  gain. 


ist  Servant.    A  wicked  mouth.     He'll  talk  himself  some  day 
Right  into  prison. 

2d  Servant.     But  it's  fun  to  hear. 

Carpenter.     Well,  brothers,  be  that  as  it  may 
I  know  much  more  than  I  can  say. 
I'm  court  repairer,  and  I  mend 
The  little  cracks  that  time  wall  rend. 
I  know  the  benches  and  the  banks  ; 
Know  when  they'll  break  from  pranks  of  cranks. 
I  know  how  hard  an  emperor's  bed; 
I  know  how  thin  the  cord  or  thread 
That  binds  the  subject's  faith.     I've  pried 
Below  the  covers  where  they  hide; 
I  sewed  the  curtains,  gold  and  red, 
In  which  the  curtain  lecture's  read. 
I  get  supports  and  find  new  roles, 
When  throne  or  pulpit's  full  of  holes. 
I  know  the  role  and  fate  of  Lulu's  reign — 
And  I  prefer  two  bottles  of  champagne.  [Enter  lean. 

Jean.     Come,  hurry  up.     The  court  will  soon  arrive. 

SCENE  VI. 
DRUYN  DE  LHUYS  [from  the  left. 

Druyn.     "To  hope  the  best  and  to  expect  the  worst, 
Renews  the  courage  and  prevents  conceit;" 
So  says  his  Majesty — quite  vague  and  curt. 
"Good  luck,  in  foolish  hands,  may  do  much  harm; 
Bad  luck,  in  wise  men's  hands  may  turn  to  good." 


Such  proverbs  are  for  children ! — that,  to  me. 

Here  are  the  Mexican  ambassadors 

And  no  one  saw  them  but  the  Emperor. 

What  do  they  bring?     Good  luck,  or  is  it  bad? 

Is  it  the  best  "  that  we  should  always  hope  ?" 

Is  it  the  worst  "that  we  should  now  expect?"- 

And  yet,  alas,  I  must  receive  the  court, 

Must  smile  or  frown;  must  show  a  policy. 

If  I  could  see  the  Archbishop  in  time ! 

A  letter  came  for  him  from  Mexico.  \_He  goes  to  window. 

SCENE  VII. 
DRUYN,  LA  BASTIDA,  ALMONTE,  and  attendants. 

Almonte.     The  letter  which  you  got  through  Aguilar  - 

La  Bastida.     Contains  but  empty  words  and  nothing  more. 

I  know  no  more  than  any  man  in  France — 

I  am  ashamed  to  come  to  court  like  that; 

How  will  it  look  if  we  are  not  au  fait? 

Almonte.     If  we  could  see  the  Minister  of  State 
He  might  give  information. 

La  Bastida.  Yes —  but  still  - 

We  must  proceed  with  caution.     Otherwise, 
He  might  find  out  how  little  - 

Almonte.  Why,  of  course. 

Druyn.     It  is  enough  to  make  a  fellow  mad.  [Stamps. 

Almonte.     Who's  talking?     Ah,  a  very  happy  chance. 
Druyn.     Be  welcome,  gentlemen. 


[    M] 

La  Bastida.  My  friend,  be  blessed. 

Almonte.     You  issued  from  the  Emperor's  boudoir? 

Druyn.     Well, —  yes, — •  some  time  ago.     A  lovely  day! 

La  Bastida.     The  fairest  wind  for  our  high  embassy. 

Druyn.     Yes.     They  arrived.     I  think  they  had  for  you 
A  letter,  which  I  hope  you  have  received? 

Almonte.     His  worship  did  receive  a  letter;  yes. 

La  Bastida.  j  What  is  the  news? 

Druyn.          \  Well,  how  do  matters  stand? 

La  Bastida.     I  beg  your  pardon. 

Druyn.  Honored  Father,  speak. 

La  Bastida. 
You  are  the  Emperor's  mouth,  speak  you  the  first. 

Druyn.     You  are  the  guests,  and  I  defer  to  you. 
What  are  the  chances  in  the  far-off  west? 

La  Bastida.     They  write —  but  —  I  will  not  anticipate. 
You  were  about  to  say  — 

Druyn.  Why  stand  on  form. 

I  pray,  quite  sans  fa$ons. 

La  Bastida.  I  am  all  ear. 

Druyn.     No,  no;  I  mean  the  letter,  you  received. 

La  Bastida.     A  modest  reticence  becomes  a  priest. 
Proceed. 

Druyn  [aside].    No  use.    \Aloud\    Well,  gentlemen,  you  see, 
Affairs  have  got  into  a  novel  state  — 

Almonte.     Of  course,  a  state 


[  '5] 

La  Bastida.  A  new  one  I  admit. 

Druyn  [perspiring].  A  state  that  is  — 
Herald.  The  Emperor! 

Druyn.  Thank  God. 


SCENE  VIII. 

The  same.     NAPOLEON.     EUGENIE.     Court.     AGUILAR. 
And  Deputation  from  Mexico. 

Napoleon.     It  is  again  my  privilege  to  speak 
To  you,  my  friends  and  Councilors  of  State, 
To  give  the  reasons  for  imperial  acts 
As  far  as  foreign  politics  permit, 
And  to  receive  from  you  that  sound  advice 
That  ever  leads  me  for  the  people's  best. 
The  throne  of  France  rules  not  alone  at  home. 
No.     It  protects  the  Frenchman  everywhere. 
Injustice  that  was  dealt  in  Mexico 
To  strangers;  and  among  them  Frenchmen,  too, 
Called  forth  the  noble  fleet  that  bore  the  crews 
Of  France,  of  England  and  of  Spain.     But  lo! 
No  sooner  had  an  insufficient  pledge, 
And  meager  ransom-money  been  obtained, 
Than  England's  men-of-war  and  Spain's,  withdrew. 
The  government  that  rules  the  British  Isles 
Is  not  inspired  by  military  fame, 
As  that  of  France.     She  sees  her  glory  through 
The  unclean  spectacles  of  trade  and  gain, 
Just  as  she  sees  her  sun  through  dismal  fog ; 


And  Spain  called  back  her  troops  because  at  home 

They  lack  the  great  security  and  wealth 

That  we  enjoy  in  this  our  blessed  realm. 

And  so  we  stood  alone  in  foreign  lands, 

Outnumbered  largely  by  rebellious  hordes, 

And,  as  on  Solferino's  battle-field, 

The  eyes  of  all  the  world  were  fixed  upon 

The  troops  of  France,  all  eager  for  the  fray. 

Was  I  to  do  as  my  allies  had  done, 

And  trust  that  Indian  chiefs  contemptuous  word; 

"He  would  accord  the  French  as  many  rights, 

As  much  protection  as  all  foreigners?" 

Was  I  to  break  my  bravest  Marshal's  staff 

And  damp  the  courage  of  my  officers, 

Teach  the  recruits  a  cowardly  retreat, 

Before  they  ever  saw  a  victory? 

Was  I  to  call  the  navy  home  in  fear; 

The  laughing  stock  of  both  the  hemispheres  ? 

\Murmurs  beginning  during  the  last  sentences  and  growing, 
bursts  forth. 

Court.     No.     Forward !     Forward !     At  the  Enemy ! 

Napoleon.     "Aye,  Forward!"  so  said   I,  and  forward  went 
The  brave,  victorious  troops  from  place  to  place, 
Till  from  the  capitol  and  every  spire, 
The  tricolor  of  France  in  triumph  waved. 
And,  free  from  all  the  pressure  of  revolt 
The  people's  sound  convictions  showed  themselves 
With  dignified,  unanimous  consent; 
They  voted  for  imperial  government, 
And  as  the  first  to  wear  the  crown,  they  chose 
My  friend,  the  Archduke  Maximilian. 


SCENE  IX. 

The  same.     Later,  the  Minister. 

Servant.     The  Minister  from  the  United  States 
Of  North  America  is  waiting,  Sire, 
And  urgently  requests  that  he  be  heard. 

Napoleon.     How !     Can  the  lion  roar  that  bleeds  to  death 
From  self-inflicted  wounds.     Yes.     Call  him  in. 
Their  stubborn  pride  of  weakness  I  would  see. 

Embassador.     The  government  of  the  United  States 
Sends  cordial  greeting  to  your  Majesty. 

Napoleon.     The  same  to  all  your  States.     Well,  honored  Sir, 
What  is  your  message?     Is  it  war  or  peace? 

Embassador.     Is  that  indifferent  to  your  majesty? 

Napoleon.     I  wish  for  peace  but  never  fear  a  war. 

Embassador.     Sire,  if  you  truly  wish  for  peace,  you  will 
Respect  the  nation's  rights  and  cease  to  crush 
With  cannon  and  with  sword,  the  liberties 
Of  that  poor,  suffering  race  of  Mexico, 
That  now  is  writhing  in  enslaving  chains. 

Napoleon.     Because  I  always  honor  people's  rights 
I  ask  that  mine  should  be  respected  too ; 
And  I  revenge  on  those  rebellious  hordes 
The  wrong  they  did  to  those  whom  I  protect. 

Embassador.     The  injury — if  such  was  done  to  France — 
Has  fully  been  repaired.     And  Juarez,  Sire, 
Whom  here  you  class  with  rebels,  he  is  called 


In  Washington,  the  rightful  president. 
The  States  will  never  recognize  a  throne 
Supported  but  by  foreign  bayonets. 

Napoleon.     And  those  called  rebels,  now  at  Washington, 
We  call  defenders  of  their  liberty. 
To  preach  the  right  of  nations,  ill  becomes 
Those  who,  in  bloody  fratricidal  war, 
Are  throttling  freedom  in  their  brother  States, 
Because  from  loathsome  Union  they  would  part. 

Embassador.     Yes,  from  a  Union  that  they  vowed  to  keep. 
And  for  what  reason  did  they  draw  the  sword? 
That  they,  in  disregard  of  human  rights, 
Might  fatten  on  the  curse  of  slavery. 

Napoleon.     What  laws  and  customs  justified  till  now 
Is  called  at  present  vile,  inhuman  crime. 
It  suits  your  tyranny  in  freedom's  mask! 

Embassador.     May  both  our  acts  be  judged  by  history. 
What  message  shall  I  send  to  Washington? 

Napoleon  \ivith  deliberation^. 
You  may  report  I  value  their  advice, 
But  their  example  would  impress  me  more. 
If  they  will  recognize  the  Southern  States, 
And  thereby  show  that  in  the  western  world 
The  people's  rights  are  fairly  recognized, 
I  will,  with  pleasure,  follow  in  their  lead, 
And  will  withdraw  my  troops  from  Mexico. 
If  not,  I  shall  construe  a  nation's  right 
Exactly  as  they  do  themselves,  and  fight. 

Embassador.     So  I  will  state.  [Exit. 


[19  ] 

Napoleon.  What  says  my  council  now? 

And  what  say  you?    [to  Druyn^ 

Druyn.  May  I  still  hesitate? 

Proud  was  the  word  and  worthy  of  a  prince 
But  was  it  not  too  hard?     Consider  it, 
If  now,  perchance,  the  States  conclude  a  peace, 
And  with  united  armies  should  enforce 
The  haughty  words  of  their  Ernbassador? 
No  doubt  our  troops  would  easily  repulse 
Such  mobs  as  fight  in  North  America; 
But  yet  the  country  that  needs  speedy  rest, 
Would  see  for  many  years  more  blood  and  steel. 
It  seems  to  me,  perhaps,  the  wisest  move 
To  leave  this  far-off  Mexico  in  peace; 
So  that  the  government,  now  well  installed, 
May  gain  in  time  the  people's  confidence. 

Napoleon  \aside\.     "New  Moscow"  rings  forever  in  my  ear! 

Almonte.     No,  do  not  listen  to  your  Minister, 
Who  rates  the  honor  of  great  France  so  low, 
That  he  would  let  those  untamed  rebels  crush 
Again,  the  glorious,  but  half-finished  work. 

La  Bastida.     O  say  a  word,  beloved  Empress,  speak 
In  favor  of  the  Holy  Father's  cause. 

Eugenie.     I,  too,  beseech  you,  my  imperial  spouse, 
To  follow  the  dictations  of  your  soul. 
Though  wisely  our  good  minister  may  warn, 
To  well  consider  and  to  move  with  care, 
An  Emperor  should  act  with  firm  resolve 
Where  he,  in  duty  bound,  must  keep  his  word. 


Remember  that  this  war  serves  not  alone 

To  benefit  the  men  of  Mexico. 

No,  for  the  power  of  the  Latin  race, 

For  our  belief  and  for  the  Holy  See, 

The  troops  are  fighting  for  the  Roman  Church. 

La  Bastida.     Ha  !  what  a  wife !  an  angel  sent  from  heaven ! 
The  holy  Father  blesses  you  through  me. 

Napoleon.     Be  not  alarmed,  no  threatening  frightens  me. 
The  eagle's  cry  sounds  like  the  raven's  caw 
When  lame  his  wings,  and  when  his  vicious  claws 
Are  buried  in  his  body's  flesh  and  blood, 
And  nothing  but  the  beak  seems  undestroyed. 
Go,  La  Bastida  and  Almonte,  both, 
To  Mexico,  as  soon  as  you  can  leave. 
There  seize  at  once  the  reins  of  government 
And  hold  them  firmly,  till  they  pass  from  you 
Into  my  noble  friend,  the  Emp'ror's  hand. 
You  start  for  Miramare,  Aguilar; 
The  Archduke  will — he  must — accept  the  crown 
That  rightly  has  belonged  to  him  for  months. 

[Stepping  between  La  Bastida  and  Almonte  ~\ 
The  man  whose  arm  is  braced  by  right  and  might 
And  heaven's  help,  is  sure  to  win  the  fight. 

SCENE  X. 

Miramare.          Castle  Gardens. 
MAXIMILIAN  and  CARLOTTA. 

Carlotta.     Come,  Max,  and  leave  those  dreary  volumes.    See ! 
How  lovely  our  dear  Miramare  is, 


When  from  the  buds  and  from  the  joyful  birds 
The  scents  and  sounds  of  spring  are  breaking  forth. 
You  used  to  praise  the  glorious  fields  and  woods ; 
You  said,  upon  the  mountain,  men  could  learn 
Far  more  than  from  thick  books  in  dusky  rooms  ; 
And  now  you  sit  at  home ;  you  read  and  write, 
And  hardly  see  your  garden  or  your  wife. 

Max.  Yes,  yes.  You  are  quite  right.  How  times  have  changed. 
Carlotta.     Are  you  not  happy,  Max,  as  formerly  ? 

Max.     Yes,  happy  any  man  with  such  a  wife, 
Though  he  might  live  in  icy  North-pole's  night. 

Carlotta.     O,  go  along  !     We're  no  more  bride  and  groom  ! 
Max.     And  should  I  love  you  less  on  that  account  ? 
Carlotta.    No,  no  !  but  spare  the  compliments.    Now  come. 
Max.     Well,  I  am  ready  ;  where  are  we  to  go  ? 

Carlotta.     Up  to  the  little  forest.     To  the  spot 
Where  I  would  like  to  build  a  summer-house. 
I  first  saw  Miramare  from  that  point 
In  all  its  glory,  and  so  there  it  is 
I  want  to  go  next  summer,  sit  and  dream. 

Max.     Next  summer,  child,  we  may  be  far  from  here. 

Carlotta.     You  talk  in  riddles,  Max;  I  often  fear 
That  cares  are  on  your  mind.     Confess  to  me, 
That  I  may  share  in  all  your  troubles,  dear. 

Max.     Beloved  wife !     Yes,  you  should  know  it  now. 
Come  in  this  arbor ;  I  will  tell  you  all, 
And  why  I  kept  it  secret  all  along. 
You  see,  I  feared  it  might  disturb  your  peace. 


The  doctor  told  me  that  your  little  heart 
Was  made  for  love  and  joy,  but  not  for  care; 
Expecting,  anxious  hoping,  and  perhaps 
Resigning,  would  be  poison  for  your  nerves. 

Carlotta.  The  naughty  doctor  ;  I  will  scold  him  well. 
Max.  You  know,  that  when  a  youth,  I  was  in  Spain. 
Carlotta.  So  you  have  told  me  many  times  before. 

Max.     I  did  not  tell,  however,  what  occurred 
So  ominously  at  Granada  once. 
The  day  had  been  quite  sultry,  and  the  night 
Sank  dark  and  chilly  on  the  sleeping  town. 
Stretched  on  my  bed  I  lay,  but  could  not  sleep ; 
I  thought  of  all  that  I  had  seen  and  done. 
The  old  cathedral,  I  so  much  admired 
The  day  before,  arose  before  my  eyes, 
In  all  its  grand  and  mystic  pomp  arrayed ; 
And  near  the  chapel,  where  the  swords  and  crowns 
Of  Emp'ror  Francis  lie  in  safe  confine, 
The  image  of  the  Virgin  Mary  stands, 
Bedecked  with  jewelry  and  precious  stones. 
In  vain  I  tried  to  tear  my  mental  eye 
Away  from  this  one  portion  of  the  church ; 
I  stared  until  my  tired  eyelids  burned. 
It  seemed  as  if  the  Holy  Virgin  called, 
And  gently  bent  her  lovely  head  to  me. 

Carlotta.     While  dreaming  or  awake  ? 

Max.  I  do  not  know— 

The  wishes  of  the  heart  the  eye  will  paint 
On  night's  dark  background,  then  absorb  again 


The  self-drawn  picture,  and  impose  it  as 

Reality  upon  the  dazzled  mind. 

And  stronger  grew  my  wish  ;  I  felt  impelled 

So  urgently  that  I  could  not  resist. 

I  threw  my  heavy  cloak  around  my  neck, 

And  walked,  until  upon  the  moonlight  square 

I  stood  before  the  grand  and  sombre  dome. 

The  night  air  had  refreshed  my  throbbing  brain, 

And  so  I  entered,  serious  but  composed  ; 

The  Holy  Virgin  stood  immovable, 

Enlivened  only  by  a  flickering  lamp. 

Carlotta.     How  wonderful  !     I'm  all  excitement,  Max. 

Max.     How  long  I  stood  before  the  iron  bars, 
That  serve  to  guard  the  Spanish  Hapsburg's  crown, 
I  could  not  say.     But  in  my  heart  I  felt 
The  burning  wish  to  conquer  with  my  sword, 
Some  future  day,  a  glorious  crown  like  his. 
I  pressed  my  feverish  head  against  the  bars— 

Carlotta.     What  happened  then  ?     I  feel  all  hot  and  cold  ! 

Max.     And  presently  I  heard  a  mighty  roar 
That  softened  to  mysterious  murmurings. 
I  saw  the  Virgin's  lips — they  seemed  to  move — 
And  heard,  enchanted,  these  prophetic  words 
That  I  shall  nevermore  forget. 

Carlotta.  You  heard 

Max.     She  said  to  me — "A  Monarch  thou  shalt  be  ; 
A  mighty  kingdom  is  awaiting  thee!" 
I  fainted  on  the  marble — and  to-day— 


[   24] 

Carlotta.     Well,  what  to-day?     I  dressed  myself  so  gay 
Because  you  wished  it;  but  I  knew  not  why. 

Max.     To-day  I  am  to  have  that  crown  at  last; 
The  State  of  Mexico  has  chosen  me. 

Carlotta.     Is  this  reality,  or  still  a  dream? 

Max.     They  offered  me  the  crown  some  time  ago, 
But  I  mistrusted  their  proceedings  then. 
I  wished  once  more  to  test  their  honest  vote, 
While  I  might  pray  for  guidance  from  above ; 
And,  therefore,  I  concealed  it  all  from  you. 
But  Aguilar  is  soon  expected  here 
To  tender  me  the  crown  a  second  time. 
I  will  not  hesitate,  but  seize  the  prize, 
And  the  Madonna's  words  will  be  fulfilled. 

Carlotta.     Then  you,  my  Max,  will  be  an  Emperor; 
And  I,  a  child,  will  be  an  Empress  then. 

0  think  of  all  the  good  that  we  can  do ! 

Max.     I  know  you  can  and  will  do  good,  my  love. 

Carlotta.     But  Mexico !     How  far,  how  far  away  ! 
And  separated  by  so  vast  a  sea, 
From  home;  and  Belgium,  too! 

Max.  O  do  not  cry, 

My  dearest  wife;  for  at  my  side  you  will 
Soon  find  abroad  a  new  and  happy  home, 
And  spreading  joy,  you  will  yourself  rejoice. 

Carlotta.     O  leave  me  to  collect  my  wandering  thoughts; 

1  am  confused,  it  came  so  suddenly. 

Max.     Behold  our  friends.     Go  with  the  Countess  Thun; 
Walk  up  and  down  and  cool  your  heated  brow. 


SCENE  XL 

\_In  the  meantime  sen>ants  have  lighted  the  garden.] 
The  same.    COUNT  and  COUNTESS  THUN.     Later  DR.  BASCH. 

Max.  God  bless  you,  Count.  What  do  you  bring  from  France  ? 
Count  Thun.     The  Emp'ror's  greetings  and  his  guaranties. 

Max.     Be  doubly  welcome  with  such  happy  news ! 
O  what  a  man  this  Emperor;  as  keen 
In  his  ideas  as  mighty  in  his  deeds; 
Unselfish  in  his  friendship,  staunch  and  true. 
How  I  do  wish  that  I  could  press  his  hand 
Before  I  start  to  cross  the  ocean's  depth.  [Enter  Basch. 

Here,  Doctor!     Do  you  look  for  me? 

Basch  [giving him  a  letter].  Why  yes; 

This  letter  from  his  Majesty,  just  came. 
[71?  Thun].     Well,  Count;  when  will  the  delegates  be  here? 

[They  talk  while  Max.  reads  the  letter.] 

Thun.     I  am  expecting  them  at  any  time. 
And  do  you  go  with  us  to  Mexico? 

Basch.     My  proper  place  is  by  my  Emp'ror's  side, 
As  true  and  firm  as  by  the  Archduke's  now. 

Max.     My  worthy  Doctor,  spoken  like  a  man. 
My  brother  warns.     He  fears  the  French  may  fail ; 
Advises  me  to  stay;  he  does  not  know 
What  is  the  friendship  of  a  Bonaparte. 


No;  I  have  faith  like  you,  Count  Thun;  and  you. 
Now,  tell  me  frankly,  Doctor;    do  you  hold 
My  brother's  views,  or  do  you  share  my  own? 

Basch.     The  views  of  both,  my  prince.     No  doubt  it  is 
A  dang'rous  undertaking.     But  for  that 
A  Hapsburg  does  not  hesitate  to  act. 
A  doctor  does  not  ask  about  the  risks 
That  his  profession  forces  him  to  run; 
He  goes  to  help  and  trusts  in  Providence. 

Max  \smiling\.   How  good;  how  wise — and  diplomatic  too; 
[7;z  the  meantime  more  guests  of  the  Queen  enter :] 
Be  welcome,  you,  and  you;  and  you,  dear  friends; 
The  last  time  here  on  Miramare's  shores.  \Enter  Servant. 

Servant.     The  delegates  from  Mexico. 

Carlotta  \Iiurrying  to  him].  O  Max ! 

The  time  has  come. 

Max.  Are  you  prepared? 

Carlotta.  I  am ! 


SCENE  XII. 

The  same.     AGUILAR  and  others  of  the  Embassy. 

Aguilar.     Again  we  dare  approach  your  majesty 
And  place  the  hope  and  welfare  of  a  race 
With  humble  prayer  in  your  princely  hands; 
For  you  alone  can  save  our  ruined  land. 
The  members  that  in  wild  and  headless  war 


Inflicted  on  each  other  bloody  wounds, 
Rest  now  exhausted,  but  unreconciled. 
In  you  we  found  the  head  that  can  control 
The  warring  factions  and  secure  us  peace. 
So  that  the  bleeding  body,  our  poor  land, 
May,  step  by  step,  recover;  and  at  last, 
Through  education  and  by  steady  work, 
Will  grow  to  be  a  mighty  kingdom  soon. 

Max.  \aside\. 
"A  mighty  kingdom;"  yes,  those  were  the  words! 

Aguilar.     O,  do  not  turn  us  back  in  hopeless  grief; 
Do  not  reject  the  better  class  of  men 
For  what  a  band  of  reckless  rebels  did. 
Take  here  this  parchment  with  the  nation's  vote, 
That  shows  the  honest  wish  of  Mexico; 
And  in  that  people's  name  we  offer  you, 
Prince  Maximilian,  Duke  of  Austria, 
The  sceptre  and  the  crown  of  Mexico.         {Gives  him  the  roll. 

Max.     And  I,  by  this,  accept  the  glorious  crown, 
For  now  I  understand  the  voice  of  Fate. 
The  crown  shall  be  a  helmet  on  my  head, 
A  sword  of  judgment  shall  my  sceptre  be, 
Until  the  rebel  hordes  are  all  subdued. 

Carlotta.     But  then  your  crown  shall  turn  into  a  wreath, 
The  sceptre  turn  into  a  shepherd's  staff, 
And  pardon  take  the  place  of  iron  law. 
Hearts  swayed  by  fear  alone  are  filled  with  hate ; 
What  sword  and  shackles  never  will  attain, 
The  people's  love,  with  mercy  we  will  gain. 


Max.     So  shall  it  be !     And  now  my  honored  guests 
Come  to  the  palace,  where  a  gay  repast 
Will  help  us  to  forget  the  parting  hour; 
And  you,  my  friends,  who  go  with  us  abroad, 
Bid  now  good-by  to  friends  and  house  and  home, 
For  soon  the  word  is:     "Ho!  for  Mexico!" 


END    OF    FIRST   ACT. 


ACT   II. 


SCENE  I. 

Mejia 's  valley  in  Mexico.  To  the  right,  Arteagds  cottage;  to 
the  left,  Mejia' s  house;  in  the  center,  a  wedding  feast. 
ARTEAGA  and  WIFE,  SALAZAR  and  WIFE,  DONNA  MEJIA, 
SCHOOLMASTER,  Guests,  etc.,  etc. 

Donna  Arteaga.     And  so  you  saw  the  Emperor  yourself? 

Donna  Mejia.     But  for  a  moment,  as  they  swiftly  passed, 
He  and  the  Empress  in  an  open  coach; 
And  from  the  eyes  of  both  beamed  love  and  joy. 
And  right  behind  their  carriage,  in  great  pomp, 
Sat  on  a  prancing  horse — who  do  you  think? — 
Mejia! 

Donna  Arteaga.     Can  it  be ! 

Donna  Mejia.  As  General! 

Schoolmaster.     Congratulations  for  the  bride's  mamma, 
And  for  the  new-made  Mrs.  Gen'ral,  too. 

Donna  Arteaga.     Behold!  here  is  the  master  of  the  school; 
How  glad  I  am  that  you  have  found  your  way, 
Through  all  the  warlike  dangers  everywhere, 
To  celebrate  with  us  this  festal  day. 

Schoolmaster.     Great  science  stands  above  the  partisans; 
Her  followers  go  free  through  martial  crowds, 


Because,  you  see,  the  principle  is  this: 

On  men  like  me,  who  are  in  knowledge  rich, 

No  further  worldly  wealth  is  ever  sought; 

So  that,  with,  through  and  by,  this  want  of  coin, 

The  great  advantage  is  upon  our  side; 

And  that,  indeed,  perhaps,  in  consequence 

Donna  Arteaga. 
There;  save  up  something  for  the  wedding  speech. 

Inez  \Jiiddenfrom  the  others  by  bushes']. 
My  Salazar !  at  last  you  are  my  own ! 

0  how  I  wish  that  we  were  all  alone, 
And  all  festivities  were  past  and  o'er. 
How  hard  they  make  the  road  to  happiness, 
With  eating,  dancing,  talking  and  what  not. 
Here  I  must  laugh;  there  I  must  hug  and  kiss, 
From  sheer  enjoyment  one  cannot  enjoy. 

Salazar.     Have  but  a  little  patience,  dearest  wife, 
And  we  will  change  the  gay  and  noisy  scene 
For  happy,  quiet,  dreamy  solitude. 

Arteaga.     Where  is  that  couple? — always  hid  away! 

Salazar.     I  knew  it.     Here  we  are ! 

Arteaga.  Come  to  the  feast. 

\They  seat  themselves.]     Your  glasses  fill,  and  for  a  little  while 
Lend  to  my  simple  words  a  friendly  ear. 
A  vet'ran  soldier,  and  a  farmer  now, 

1  work  much  better  with  my  arms  and  hands 
'.Than  with  my  mouth.     But  on  this  gala  day, 

As  father  of  this  happy,  little  bride, 
I  will  attempt  to  find  words  to  express 


The  wishes  and  intentions,  that  for  both, 
Since  many  months  lay  hidden  in  my  heart. 
The  man  who  weds  my  Inez  on  this  day 
Has  fought  in  many  battles  by  my  side ; 
And  more  than  once  I  owe  my  life  to  him. 
Then,  when  I  got  this  land,  a  cloister  farm, 
Deserted  by  the  monks,  he  helped  to  turn 
The  dismal  desert  into  what  you  see, 
With  all  the  troubles  in  a  time  of  war. 
And  now  that  we  expect  a  speedy  peace, 
Assured  by  strong  imperial  government, 
I  give  this  man  my  blessing,  with  my  child, 
And  all  the  farming  land. 

Salazar.  Not  all  your  farm  ! 

Arteaga.     Yes,  all  is  yours;  for  my  declining  strength 
The- garden  and  the  fruit  is  quite  enough. 

Inez.     Oh,  father,  mother,  that  is  far  too  much ! 

Donna  Arteaga.     Live  long  and  well,  and  happy  on  the  farm. 

Guests.     Long  may  they  live ! 

Schoolmaster.  Allow  a  friend  to  speak. 

Guests.     Aha !     Now  listen ;  so  you  don't  get  lost. 

Schoolmaster.     If  I  particularly  think  of  him, 
Who,  indirectly,  by  his  glorious  deeds, 
Has  helped  to  bring  about  this  wedding  feast ; 
It  is  because  I  stood  so  near  to  him — 
I  speak  here  of  the  Emperor — for  I — 
Commanded  the  reception  to  assist — 
Advanced  with  hundred  children  to  the  shore, 
To  strew  the  path  with  flowers  and  hurrahs ! 


Salazar.     Indeed,  we  owe  the  Emperor  great  thanks. 

Schoolmaster.     And  afterwards — I  do  not  say,  because — 
But  still,  perhaps,  in  some  connection,  I 
Discovered  hundred  dollars  in  my  pouch. 

Arteaga.     That  was  not  much  for  such  exciting  work. 

Schoolmaster.  Now,  don't  you  see,  where  such  enormous  sums 
Are  sacrificed  to  scientific  art; 
That  is  a  sign,  that  peace  is  near  at  hand. 
So  that,  at  once,  in  jubilirious  joy, 
We  plunge  into  the  waves  of  sentiment, 
And  drink  long  life  to  "Emperor  and  Peace!" 

AIL     Hurrah  for  Emp'ror  Max ! 

SCENE  II. 

The  same.     JUAREZ  and  PORFIRIO. 
Juarez.  Who  are  these  folks? 

Porfirio.     The  friends  of  Arteaga;  he  whose  child 
Has  married  Salazar  this  very  day. 
Both  men  have  served  with  Santa  Anna's  force; 
And,  as  I  hear,  with  courage  and  much  skill, 
So  that  they  soon  advanced  to  higher  ranks. 

Juarez.     We  need  good  leaders  and  the  French  are  near. 
Is  it  not  possible  to  win  those  men? 

Porfirio.     You  never  will.     Those  people  want  repose ; 
And  whether  right  or  wrong  rules  in  the  land 
They  do  not  care;  in  fact  they  do  not  know. 
The  one  is  old,  the  other  dead  in  love; 


[33] 

That  makes  them  tame.     Besides,  Mejia  is 
Their  friend;  and  he  was  honored  with  high  trust 
You  heard  them  shouting  as  we  came  along. 
They  are  imperial  men  from  top  to  toe. 

Juarez.     Mejia,  traitor,  you  shall  pay  for  this ! 
As  to  those  men,  I  think  you  judge  them  wrong; 
In  every  breast  there  is  a  spark  of  right, 
And  more  so  in  a  vet'ran  soldier's  heart ; 
Perhaps,  with  glowing  words,  I  may  succeed 
In  fanning  that  faint  spark  into  a  blaze. 
Go  you,  Porfirio,  watch  the  enemy- 
It  is  so  easy  to  surprise  us  here.  [Exit  Porfirio. 

SCENE  III. 
The  same,  except  PORFIRIO. 

Juarez.     Most  worthy  gentlemen  and  ladies  fair, 
Permit  a  poor  and  tired  wanderer 
A  modest  share  in  all  this  happiness. 
A  drink,  a  bite,  a  smile  or  friendly  word, 
And  thankful  I  will  go  my  lonely  way. 

Guest.     A  high-bred  beggar  man — what  modest  pride ! 

Arteaga.     No  sufferer  goes  empty  from  my  door  ; 
And  if  a  friend  of  peace  and  Emp'ror  Max, 
You  shall  be  welcome  to  my  humble  home. 

Juarez.     I  am  for  peace  and  him  who  brings  that  peace, 
Whoever  he  may  be. 

Arteaga.  Your  soldier's  dress, 

Though,  seems  to  contradict  your  peaceful  words. 


[  34] 

Juarez.     And  why?     Not  every  man  who  favors  peace 
Can  always  live  in  peace.     For  every  man 
Must  be  defender  of  his  property; 
Must  guard  his  house  and  home  from  vile  attacks; 
From  being  broken  into  over  night. 
A  villain,  who  has  driven  me  from  home, 
Who  robbed  and  slew  my  children,  is  the  man 
I  am  in  search  of — wandering  far  and  wide. 
At  times  I  go  ahead  with  hope  and  cheer, 
And  then  again  retract  the  useless  steps. 
I  will  not  rest  until  my  arm  has  slain, 
My  foot  has  trodden  him  into  the  dust. 

Donna  Arteaga.     What  awful  fate  ! 

Jnez-  How  sad  and  pale  he  looks! 

Salazar.     Come,  father,  let  us  take  our  guns  at  once. 
This  poor  man's  story  is  revolting.     Come ! 
If  you  suspect  the  murderer  near  by, 
We  follow  you,  if  you  will  lead  the  way. 

Juarez.     Thanks !  Warmest  thanks !  I  hold  you  to  your  word. 
But  now,  I  will  not  blight  your  happiness; 
Forgive  the  speech  that  spread  a  moment's  gloom, 
The  heart  was  full,  and  so  the  mouth  would  flow. 
Now  that  I  may  rely  upon  your  help, 
Let  me  forget  my  troubles  for  awhile, 
And  try  to  be  less  sad  among  the  gay. 

Donna  Arteaga.     Have  you  been  lately  at  the  capital? 
We  have  not  heard  the  news  for  many  days. 

Juarez.     Yes,  I  could  tell  a  pretty  tale  from  there. 

Donna  Arteaga.   Here,  eat  and  drink  and  tell  us  all  you  know. 


[  35  ] 

Juarez.     Not  long  ago  I  went  to  Mexico, 
And  all  the  city  was  adorned  with  flags; 
The  Cortez  council  was  assembled  there, 
To  change  anew  the  country's  government. 
My  cousin,  who  was  janitor  up  there, 
Procured  me  easily  a  hiding  place, 
From  where  I  saw  the  crazy  farce,  disguised ; 
That  is—  I  mean — well  dressed  in  decent  clothes. 

Arteaga  [angrily].   "A  crazy  farce !"  The  Cortez  serious  vote ! 

Juarez  \bitterly\.    Ha !  ha !    Had  you  but  seen  the  cruel  joke  ! 
With  frowning  brow,  and  with  his  doubled  fist, 
The  Marechal  of  France  walked  bluntly  up 
To  every  Cortez,  and  with  rasping  voice, 
He  said:  "I  take  your  vote  (with  your  consent) 
For  Emperor  Maximilian;  is  that  right? 
Of  course  he  is  your  choice.     Why  don't  you  speak?" 
And  humbly  every  Cortez  answered,  "Yes." 

Schoolmaster.     That  was  the  way;  I  saw  it  all  myself, 
For  with  the  children  I  was  ordered  there ; 
One  hundred  soldiers  joined  the  chorus,  too. 
We  cried,  "Hurrah!"  to  close  with  grand  effect. 

Juarez.     Now,  do  you  hear  it?     Come  and  fill  a  glass; 
Long  life  to  freedom  and  the  people's  rights. 

Salazar.     That  is  no  right — not  as  you  show  it  there  ; 
The  devil  may  respond  to  such  a  toast. 

Juarez.     What  is  the  difference,  if  the  end  is  good? 
True,  they  still  burn  and  murder,  here  and  there; 
But  that  will  change,  like  many  other  things. 
The  lands,  for  instance,  that  were  taken  from 


[36] 

The  greedy  priests,  and  now  so  richly  bloom, 
Will  be  returned  to  monast'ry's  dead  hand. 

Arteaga.     What,  all  of  them?     Not  this  fine  cloister  farm! 
Juarez.     That  is  but  little  for  an  emp'ror's  throne. 
Arteaga.     But  then  the  State  must  pay  us  for  the  land. 

Juarez.     And  if  they  gave  you  all  their  treasury 
You  would  have  nothing  but  a  pile  of  debts. 

Arteaga.     They  cannot,  dare  not,  do  such  unjust  acts ! 

Donna  Mejia.  Trust  not  the  man  who  spreads  such  discontent 
Who  is  he  that  you  should  believe  his  word. 

Jiiarez  [giving  him  a  paper\. 
Look  here;  here  is  the  paper.     Read  yourselves. 

Arteaga  \reading\. 

By  Jove !  they  shall  not  drive  me  from  my  farm, 
That  I  have  nursed  for  years  just  like  a  child ! 

Juarez.     Read  on.      They  mean  to  take  your  children,  too ; 
To  drill  and  educate  them  by  the  priests 
In  Greek  and  Latin  and — despotic  rule. 

Salazar    And  then,  perhaps,  forget  their  mother  tongue; 
Their  manly  liberty !     What  burning  shame ! 

Juarez.     'Tis  only  for  the  sake  of  blessed  peace; 
That  you  shall  have,  though  it  should  only  be 
The  graveyard's  dead  and  everlasting  peace; 
Let  us  again  send  forth  a  loud  hurrah, 
For  Emperor  and  peace.     What?     You  are  dumb! 
You  seemed  so  full  of  joy  and  praise  just  now — 

Guests.     We  want  no  peace— not  such  a  peace  as  that ! 


[  37  ] 

O  do  not  mention  that  imperial  name ! 

Are  we  such  fools,  that  they  can  play  with  us? 

Donna  Mejia.     Accursed  man,  why  do  you  spur  them  on? 

Juarez.     I  do  not  spur;  I  cut  the  cataract 
That  seems  to  blind  the  people's  mental  eye. 

Arteaga.     My  God,  how  very  blind  we  must  have  been! 

Inez  [to  mother]. 
Oh !  were  this  but  a  dream.     It  bodes  no  good. 

Juarez.     And  do  you  recognize  the  robber  now. 
Who  would  enslave  me,  you,  and  every  one? 
Behold  in  me  our  freedom's  champion. 
Arouse  yourselves  and  seize  again  your  arms, 
For  I,  old  Juarez,  I  will  lead  you  on ! 

AIL     What,  Juarez  here?     The  hero  in  our  midst? 


SCENE  IV. 

The  same.     PORFIRIO  DIAZ. 

Porfirio  [rushing  in\.  We  are  surrounded  by  imperial  troops ! 

Juarez.     Now  then,  redeem  the  promise  that  you  gave ; 
Defend  your  liberty,  your  house  and  farm. 

Arteaga.     I  will,  with  all  my  heart. 

Guests.  And  I— and  I ; 

We  all  will  fight;  come,  let  us  get  the  guns! 

[Exit  Arteaga  and  Guests. 
Schoolmaster.     Great  science  stands  above  the  partisans. 

[Exit. 


[38] 

Salazar.     My  poor,  beloved  wife,  how  short  a  joy ! 
Inez.     O  Salazar,  don't  leave  me  or  I  die. 

Salazar.  Compose  yourself,  sweet  bride.  When  we  have  slain 
The  enemy,  I  will  return  to  you. 
Then  we  will  celebrate  another  feast, 
Uninterrupted  by  a  despot's  scheme. 

[Tears  himself  away.     Exit. 

Donna  Arteaga  [weeping]. 

My  poor,  dear,  good  old  husband!     'Tis  too  bad! 

Juarez.     Good  women,  clear  the  furniture  away, 
And  then  take  refuge  on  some  neighboring  farm. 

Donna  Arteaga.    O  what  a  scourge  !    The  Lord  be  merciful ! 

[They  dear  the  stage  and  exit. 

Donna  Mejia.     Mejia's  house  you  shall  not  occupy; 
His  wife  will  not  admit  such  rebel  hordes. 

Juarez  [to  soldiers}.  Take  her  away  that  she  may  not  betray 

[She  draws  a  dagger. 
Yes,  stab  me,  if  you  like.     What  counts  one  man? 

Donna  Mejia.     No,  not  the  death  of  martyrdom  enjoy. 
A  traitor,  you  shall  die  by  hangman's  hand. 

[Exit  as  prisoner. 

SCENE  V. 

JUAREZ,  PORFIRIO,  ARTEAGA,  SALAZAR  and  Guests. 
[They  come  back  uniformed  and  furnished  with  different  weapons~\. 

Guests.     We  are  prepared  and  wait  your  orders  now. 
Juarez  [to  Arteaga  and  Salazar].     What  was  your  rank? 


[  39  1 

Arteaga.  I  was  a  major  once. 

Salazar.     A  captain,  I,  though  not  experienced 
As  here  my  father; — full  of  courage,  too. 

Juarez.     Swear  on  this  flag  allegiance  unto  death. 
AIL     We  swear! 

Juarez  [to  Arteaga  and  Salazar]. 
Now,  show  that  you  deserve  my  faith, 
For  I  will  trust  you  with  a  small  command ; 
Your  house  and  yard  shall  be  your  fortress  now. 
Porfirio,  stay  and  station  all  the  troops; 
Make  safe  the  buildings  on  your  right  and  left, 
I  hurry  to  the  center.     Time  is  short. 
Stand  true  and  firm,  and  trust  in  God! 

All.  Hurrah ! 

{Music,    marching,    counter-marching,  firing.       Mejia's   troops 
break  into  the  yard.      Truce. 

SCENE  VI. 
MEJIA,  SALAZAR,  ARTEAGA,  Soldiers,  etc. 

Mejia.     Surrender  in  the  Emp'ror's  name  !     How  now! 
You,  Salazar  and  Arteaga,  you 
Among  these  men?     What  has  misled  you  so? 

Arteaga  [at  window\     • 
We  are  protecting  freedom,  house  and  home. 

Mejia.     And  turn  my  house  into  a  hostile  fort ! 
O,  do  not  force  an  old  and  trusting  friend 
To  turn  into  your  executioner, 
By  such  revolting  crime  of  treachery. 


[40] 

Arteaga.     Still  more  revolting  I  would  call  the  crime 
That  you  should  be  the  murderer  of  your  friends, 
And,  joined  to  foreign  fiends,  call  down  upon 
Your  head  the  curses  of  your  native  land. 

Mejia.     Had  you  been  better  patriots,  the  throne 
Would  have  been  safe  without  the  foreign  help. 

Arteaga.     Had  you  been  better  patriots,  the  land 
Would  have  been  safe  without  the  foreign  throne. 

Mejia.     Enough  of  useless  words.     Unbolt  this  door. 
Will  you  surrender,  miserable  fools  ? 

Salazar.     Stand  back  and  save  your  life,  or  I  will  fire. 

Mejia. 
That  seals  your  doom.     Come  on,  boys  !     Storm  the  house. 

[  They  storm  the  houses;  fire  breaks  out. 


SCENE  VII. 

Mexico.     Maximilian's  Palace.     Audience  Room. 

Max.     How  different  do  politics  appear, 
Viewed  from  the  high  position  of  a  throne, 
Than  from  the  valley  of  the  multitudes, 
Who  scarcely  see  what  is  quite  near  at  hand. 
The  consequences  that  seem  clear  as  day, 
When  in  due  time  they  follow  human  deeds, 
How  difficult  are  they  to  weigh  before ; 
And  yet,  it  seems,  I  must  allow  the  press, 
That  judges  all  I  do  by  mere  results, 
To  criticise  this  act  or  that  reform, 


[41    ] 

Or  praise  a  speech  with  faintly  hidden  scorn, 

Half  understood  or  mutilated  quite. 

They  soon  mislead  their  readers;  thoughtless  crowd. 

Must  I  allow  it  after  all  ?     And  why  ? 

Because  in  weak  enthusiasm  once, 

I  dreampt  to  govern  with  a  gentle  hand, 

And  looked  on  liberty  from  lower  spheres. 

Short-sighted,  cruel  men,  I  used  to  call 

My  friend— my  brother,  too — for  their  strict  laws,. 

Because  I  thought — O,  vain  imagining — 

That  I  had  found  the  spell  in  Nature's  laws,. 

How  to  combine  unbounded  liberty 

With  stern,  eternal  order.     Happy  dream  ! 

What  have  I  gained  by  magnanimity  ? 

What  by  the  pile  of  generous  decrees, 

Composed  in  Miramare  in  advance, 

In  order  to  be  signed  in  Mexico. 

Why,  nothing  have  I  gained  but  what  the  sword 

Of  that  untiring  Marechal  of  France 

Has  conquered.     He,  the  mighty  Emp'ror's  arm. 

Who,  though  with  constant  sacrifices,  he 

Adds  to  my  strength,  extending  my  domain, 

Has  modestly  withdrawn  from  praise  and  thanks,. 

So  that  I  hardly  see  him  here  at  court. 

No,  no !     This  people  is  not  ripe  for  laws 

Such  as  might  suit  a  highly  cultured  land. 

What  I  so  often  have  condemned  and  fought, 

The  censure  of  the  press,  I  must  adopt, 

So  these  rebellious  papers  may  not  stir 

The  simple-minded  people  to  revolt, 

Until  they  fall  as  victims  to  my  troops. 


[42   ] 

At  other  times  they  have  defiled  the  acts 

And  best  intentions,  of  my  truest  friends; — 

It  must  be  stopped;  and  that  without  delay, — 

The  freedom  of  the  press  is  thus  abridged.      [54r«J  the  decree. 

I  almost  hesitate — well,  for  a  while — 

I  must  not  check  the  marshal's  valiant  strength 

With  halting  weakness,  that  so  many  times 

Has  undermined  what  had  been  bravely  won. 

I  cannot  stand  the  mild  but  withering 

Reproaches  for  my  hesitating  acts, 

That  strike  me  with  but  ill-concealed  contempt, 

In  La  Bastida's  smooth  yet  biting  speech. 

Come  forth  once  more,  thou  blackest  of  decrees, 

That  in  a  bitter  moment  I  conceived, 

And  then  destroyed,  but  now  again  renew ; 

With  great  deliberation  I  must  act. 

For  months  I  call  this  Mexico  my  own, 

And  still  the  war  seems  never  ending.     No  ! 

This  vile  rebellion  must  come  to  an  end. 

[Reads].     "  All  who  are  found  with  weapons  in  their  hands, 

Resisting  law  and  government,  shall  be 

Court-martialed,  executed  on  the  spot, 

And  their  estates  fall  to  the  treasury." 

A  cruel  law ;  and  yet  there  is  no  help. 

What  sacrifices  one  man  may  save  ten. 

That  is  my  consolation.     \He  signs].     It  is  done, 

And  yet — I  will  consider — still  'tis  mine. 


[43  ] 

SCENE  VIII. 
MAXIMILIAN,  CARLOTTA,  then  LARES. 

Carlotta  \_without\    O,  let  me  be  the  first  to  break  the  news 
To  my  beloved  lord. 

Max.  Speak,  dearest  wife; 

(iood  news,  no  doubt,  my  guardian  angel  brings. 

Carlotta.     Rejoice  !  rejoice !     The  victory  is  ours. 
A  messenger  just  galloped  into  court. 
Hut  I  persisted  I  would  be  the  first 
To  tell  the  glorious  tale.     For  I  was  sure 
That  you  would  clasp  the  first  one  to  your  breast, 
And  that  embrace  no  other  should  enjoy. 

Max.   [embracing  her]. 

Indeed,  who  would  not  kiss  such  messenger; 
But  where  delays  the  man  ?    I  wish  to  hear. 

Carlotta.     He  spoke  to  Lares.     See,  he's  coming  now. 
Max.     My  dear,  good  Lares,  is  it  true,  indeed  ? 
Lares.     Yes;  here  are  the  dispatches.     Praise  to  God! 

\He  presents  the  dispatches- 
Max,  [reading].  Tis  true,  by  Heaven !    Beaten  everywhere  1 
Six  thousand  prisoners  of  war  they  took ! 
Among  them  are  three  gen'rals !     Great  Bazaine  ! 

[He  opens  another  dispatch. 
And  here,  Mejia,  fighting  at  the  head 
Of  his  brave  Mexicans,  had  grand  success  ! 
That  is  as  welcome  news  as  any  yet. 

\He  opens  a  third  dispatch. 


[44] 

What!     Juarez  disappeared  !     He  has  perhaps 
Flown  from  the  country  !     O,  the  joyful  news  ! 
At  last  I  am  the  master  of  my  land, 
And  happiness  and  harmony  return, — 
Let  us  take  hold  with  new  encouragement. 

Lares.     And  sternly  judge  all  plotters  of  revolt. 

Carlotta.     Severity  again,  and  nothing  else! 

SCENE    IX. 

The  same.     LA  BASTIDA.     FATHER  VISCHER.     AGUIRRK. 
CAMPOS.      Court. 

La  Bastida.     I  am  rejoiced  that  it  has  pleased  the  Lord 
To  send  your  Majesty  this  great  success. 

Father  Vischer.    Your  Majesty's  most  humble  servant  joins 
In  these  congratulations  with  delight. 

Aguirre.     I  can  but  say  the  same  with  all  my  heart. 

Campos.     O,  may  this  victory  mean  lasting  peace. 

Max.     I  thank  you,  gentlemen,  that  you  have  come 
To  share  with  me  the  happiness  I  feel. 
Here,  read  yourselves  the  news  of  victory. 
And  now  let  us  return  with  energy 
To  those  much  needed  government  reforms. 
Here  are  the  laws  that  I  had  signed  in  doubt, 
With  confidence  I  place  them  in  your  hands. 
You,  worthy  Campos,  will  not  find  it  hard, 
By  an  increase  of  tariff  to  procure 
The  needed  means  to  carry  out  the  work; 
Such  outlays  will  repay  us  well  in  time. 


[45] 

Campos.     I  will  exert  myself,  your  Majesty. 
But  pray  do  not  expect  too  much  at  first; 
A  patient,  when  his  fever  heat  subsides, 
Appears  much  weaker  than  he  did  before; 
Just  so  the  State,  when  frenzied  wrar  has  passed. 

Max.     And  you,  Aguirre,  education's  guard, 
Will  have  a  difficult  position  nowr. 
The  present  State,  whatever  we  may  do, 
Will  be  but  patchwork  at  the  very  best. 
The  future  State  should  form  one  solid  whole, 
And  we  should  educate  accordingly. 
The  children  should  not  work  from  early  youth, 
In  common  labor  that  exhausts  their  strength. 
No.     Every  child  hereafter  shall  be  taught 
Religion  first  of  all;  philosophy, 
The  ancient  languages  and  history. 
For  only  early-drilled  and  well-taught  minds, 
Combine  with  freedom  due  respect  for  law. 
The  further  details  of  the  law  are  here.  [Hands  it  to  him, 

The  parents  who,  in  cruel  selfishness, 
Withhold  the  children  from  the  common  school, 
To  draw  scant  wages  from  the  tiny  hands, 
Shall,  first,  be  warned;  and  in  the  second  case, 
The  children  shall  be  taken  from  their  care. 

Aguirre.     Your  Majesty,  it  is  a  dangerous  thing, 
Such  sudden  change  among  the  lower  class. 

Max.     If  dangerous  at  all,  but  for  a  while, 
Until  success  convinces  prejudice. 
When  well  refined  and  educated  youths 
Return  to  their  delighted  parents'  homes, 


[46] 

Then  all  will  see  the  blessings  of  reform. 

Compulsion  will  be  nominal,  and  I 

Can  give  my  people  all  their  freedom  back; 

But  for  the  present,  here  the  censure  law.       [Gives  it  to  Lares. 

Lares  \whispers\.     Well,  that  is  something. 

La  Bastida  {whispers}.  But  not  quite  enough ! 

Max.     Now,  gentlemen,  I  hope  you  will  attend 
To  everything  without  delay. 

La  Bastida.  May  I 

Make  one  suggestion  ? 

Max.  Honored  father,  speak. 

La  Bastida.     Exalted  minds,  accustomed  but  to  soar 
In  lighter  spheres,  detect  the  distant  goal, 
Where  those  who  walk  the  ground  see  but  the  road; 
But  this,  let  me  assure  your  Majesty, 
We  humbler  men  see  better  than  yourself. 
Lead  us  your  way,  and  we  will  follow  you ; 
But  take  our  warning  kindly  when  we  point 
To  stumbling-blocks  with  which  the  road  is  strewn. 
The  censure  and  the  school  laws,,  good  and  wise, 
Will  yet  remain  half  measures  after  all; — 
They  will  cause  opposition  everywhere; 
They  taunt  the  lion,  but  they  do  not  tame. 
Do  not  suppose  the  rebel  strength  subdued 
Because  their  fighting  troops  have  met  defeat; 
In  many  hearts  the  loyalty  is  faint, 
And  treachery  still  rankles  in  the  breasts 
Of  plotting  men,  behind  the  mask  of  faith ; 
Assassins  lurk  around  the  palace  still. 


[47   ] 

Be  quite  the  man  that  present  times  demand ; 
Do  not  shrink  back  from  those  decisive  acts 
That  you  so  loudly  praise  in  other  men, 
But  issue  the  decree  that  you  withdrew, 
Crush  out  the  last  suspicion  of  revolt, 
For  only  then  you  will  rule  free  from  care, 

Max.     I  knew  it  but  too  well;  the  same  reproach! 
For  once,  however,  you  have  judged  me  wrong. 
The  law  that  you  so  urgently  demand 
I  have  just  signed. 

Carlotta.  What !  not  the  document 

That  yesterday  you  promised  to  destroy ! 

Max.     The  same.     It  seems  quite  indispensable. 
Well  it  is  ready  to  be  countersigned. 

Carlotta.     Hold,  Maximilian;  do  not  be  too  quick. 
When  I,  just  now,  proclaimed  the  joyful  news, 
You  called  me  guardian  angel;  let  me  now 
In  warning  be  your  guardian  angel  too. 
Do  not  estrange  the  hearts  that  turn  to  us ! 
Do  you  remember  what  we  promised  once, 
That,  when  the  rebel  hordes  had  been  destroyed, 
Sweet  mercy  should  replace  strict  punishment  ? 

Lares.     But,  noble  Empress,  when  temptation  stops, 
Is  not  the  treason  doubly  criminal  ? 

Carlotta.     If,  as  you  say,  temptation's  voice  is  dead, 
Will  not  the  crime  of  treason  disappear? 

Lares.     Whene'er  the  crime  shall  cease,  your  Majesty, 
This  stringent  law  will  be  dead  letter  soon; 


[48   ] 

Besides,  you  still  retain  the  glorious  right 

To  pardon  where  blind  justice  would  condemn. 

Carlotta.     Well,  then,  to  older  wisdom  I  submit, 
And  trust  that  mercy  may  avert  the  worst. 

Max.     So  let  it  be.     You,  gentlemen,  will  see 
That  all  these  laws  are  promptly  carried  out; 
[to  Major  Domo\  And  for  to-night  I  want  the  grandest  feast 
That  ever  these  old  castle  walls  have  seen, 
To  celebrate  the  day  with  joy  and  pomp. 
Invite  all  loyal  grandees  of  my  realm; 
Be  sure  to  bid  Prince  Iturbide  come, 
The  Princess  likewise,  his  most  noble  aunt; 
Proclaim  the  victory  throughout  the  land, 
And  on  the  piazza  make  a  barbecue; 
Set  out  a  hundred  casks  of  beer  and  wine, 
So  that  the  people  may  rejoice  with  us. 
[To  Ministers^     I  hope  to  see  you  all  at  court  to-night. 

\Exit  with  Carlotta  and  Court. 

La  Bastida  [to  Father  Vischer]. 
And  so  at  last  we  have  achieved  success. 
Fail  not  to  put  in  force,  with  utmost  speed, 
This  bloody  law  that  will  avenge  the  church 
For  many  insults  and  the  loss  of  lands. 

Father  Vischer. 
No  fear,  your  reverence;  you  know  my  zeal. 

La  Bastida  [to  the  others]. 
The  Lord  be  with  you,  friends,  and  lead  you  right. 

Lares.     And  may  he  bless  your  noble  work !     Good  night. 

Exit  all  but  Father  Vischer. 


[49  ] 

SCENE  X. 

FATHER  VISCHER.     Later,  INEZ  and  DONNA  ARTEAGA. 

Father  Vischer.     Yes;  I  declare  I  love  our  mother  church. 
What  was  my  lot  before  she  took  me  up  ? 
A  scholar  first;  then  teacher,  smuggler,  spy, 
Gold  digger  in  the  West — from  bad  to  worse ; 
Now  that  I'm  "Father"  I  am  everything, 
And  swing — the  right  hand  of  my  Emperor — 
The  cudgel  over  many  thousand  heads. 

Sewant.     Two  women  from  the  country  stand  outside ; 
They  bring  petitions  to  the  Emperor. 

Father  Vischer.     Two  pretty  women  ?     And  without  a  man  ? 
Let  them  come  in.  [Enter  Donna  Arteaga  and  Inez. 

Approach,  good  women.     [Aside.]     Oh! 
The  one  is  old  and  ugly!     [Aloud.]     Pretty  maid, 
Come,  tell  me  freely  what  is  your  desire. 

Inez.     My  husband  and  my  father  are  confined — 

Father  Vischer  [aside,  softly]. 
Her  husband !     Hm !     So  she  is  married,  too  1 

Donna  Arteaga. 

They  always  have  been  loyal  to  the  crown, 
But  were  seduced  with  smooth  and  glittering  words. 

Father  Vischer.     Aha!   I  understand.     They  broke  the  law; 
In  prison  now;  and  will  be  soon  piff,  paff! 

Donna  Arteaga. 
They  won't  be  shot !     The  Lord  have  mercy !     No ! 


[  So] 

Father  Vischer. 

Don't  scream  like  that  at  Court.     Look  here,  old  dame, 
Go  into  yonder  room,  and  from  that  door 
You  soon  will  see  the  Emperor  appear. 
So  keep  a  good  look  out;  don't  miss  your  chance, 
While  your  good  daughter  will  explain  the  case. 

Donna  Arteaga. 
Yes,  yes.     God  grant  that  we  are  not  too  late !  [Exit. 

Father  Vischer.     Now,  listen,  my  good  girl,  and  do  not  cry. 
Do  you  behold  that  paper  on  the  desk  ? 
While  that  is  mine,  your  husband's  life  is  safe; 
But  when  the  law  contained  in  that  decree 
Has  left  my  hands,  the  men  you  love  must  die. 

Inez  [kneeling].     O,  then,  retain  the  paper  in  your  hands 
Till  we  invoke  the  monarch's  mercy,  pray ! 

Father  Vischer  [aside].     How  beautiful  she  is !     Adorable ! 
[Aloud]    Arise,  my  poor,  my  dear,  my  lovely  maid,— 
No;  woman,  I  would  say, — all  shall  be  done 
That  in  my  power  lies;  for,  queer  to  say, 
The  very  moment  that  I  saw  your  face 
My  heart  was  yours  in  pity  and  in  love. 

Inez.     Then  let  us  hurry  to  his  Majesty  ! 

Father  Vischer. 

No,  child.     At  court  things  do  not  move  so  fast ; 
Besides,  my  orders  are:  "without  delay" 
To  have  that  miserable  law  proclaimed; 
And  strictly  punished  is  all  negligence; 
And  yet  for  such  a  dear  and  darling  wench 

Inez.     No !     Let  me  go !     O,  why  this  long  delay  ? 


Father  Vischer.     Come,  follow  me  in  yonder  little  room, 
And  tell  me  all  about  your  troubles  there. 
Perhaps  I  can  console  with  fervent  prayer, 
And  as  we  learn  to  know  each  other  well, 
In  cosy  friendship,  I  might  take  my  chance, 
And  put  my  duties  off  a  little  while. 

Inez.     Why  in  that  little  room?     Why  not  right  here? 
And  don't  you  know  enough  about  my  grief? 
\Aside\     He  stares  at  me  as  if  he  meant  no  good ! 
[AtoUd]     No,  no !     I  will  not  follow  you  in  there. 

Father  Vischer  [aside]. 

She  seems  at  last  to  comprehend  my  scheme. 
\_Aloud~\.     You  foolish  girl,  why  do  you  hesitate  ? 
Two  ways,  I  tell  you,  only  go  from  here: 
The  one  leads  into  that  boudoir  with  you ; 
The  other,  to  the  prison  with  that  law. 

Inez.     What  shall  I  do  !          {Clasping  her  hands  in  despair. 

Father  Vischer.  No  affectation;  come, 

Is  not  my  kindness  worth  a  fair  reward  ? 

Inez.     You  miserable  man,  if  it  be  true, 
That  in  your  hands  you  hold  my  husband's  life, 
Far  better  he  should  die  through  his  own  deed, 
Than  live  dishonored  by  my  infamy. 

Father  Vischer.     Must  I  compel  you  then  to  your  own  good ! 

\_He  takes  hold  of  her. 

Inez.     Stand  back  from  me!     Help!     Mother! 


ts«] 

SCENE    XL 

The  same.     DONNA  ARTEAGA  and  DR.  BASCH  hurry  in  from 
opposite  sides. 

Donna  Arteaga.  What  goes  on? 

Dr.  Basch.     Who  calls  ? 

Father  Vischer.  Be  silent,  or  your  husband  dies! 

Inez.     I  thought — I  felt — I  was  about  to  faint. 

Donna  Arteaga  [to  Doctor}. 
O,  worthy  sir,  let  me  entreat  your  help  : 
Procure  an  audience  with  his  Majesty, 
That  we  may  plead  for  our  poor  husbands'  lives. 

Dr.  Basch.     Why,  certainly  I  will,  come !     Follow  me 
As  soon  as  possible. 

Donna  Arteaga.       The  Lord  be  blessed ! 

\Dr.  Basch  threatens  Father  Vischer  with  his  finger. 

Exit  with  the  women. 

Father  Vischer.     Yes,  shake  your  finger,  you  old  Philis'ine  ! 
Though  I  am  forced  to  let  the  damsel  slip, 
I  hold  the  husband  in  my  deadly  grip.       [Exit  with  the  decree. 

SCENE  XII. 
Banquet  Hall, 

MAXIMILIAN,   CARLOTTA,    LA  BASTIDA,   FATHER  VISCHER, 
MEJIA,  PRINCE  and  PRINCESS  ITURBIDE  and  Court. 

Max. 

Sound  trumpets !     Drums  roll  forth  your  thundering  voice ! 


[53] 

Proclaim  to  all  the  great  victorious  day, 

That  after  all  the  sufferings  of  war, 

Brings  back  to  us  prosperity  and  peace. 

Be  welcome,  brave  Mejia,  at  my  court ; 

How  glad  I  am  that  you  could  leave  the  troops, 

In  order  to  receive  from  my  own  hands 

This  decoration  for  your  valiant  deeds. 

[Gives  him  the  decoration. 

Mejia.     My  sovereign,  you  make  me  feel  ashamed. 
I  only  did  my  duty.     Heaven  knows 
How  hard  it  was  at  Sierra  Gorda. 

Max.  No! 

All  Mexico  owes  you  a  debt  of  thanks. 
The  present  needs  no  more  our  constant  watch, 
And  we  can  look  into  the  future  now, 
With  courage  and  with  greater  confidence. 
Let  us  to-day  a  crowning  keystone  lay 
To  Hapsburg's  house — cemented  as  it  was 
With  our  best  citizens'  most  precious  blood — 
That  it  may  stand  unshaken  by  the  storms. 
It  has  not  pleased  the  Lord  to  bless  us  with 
An  heir  to  follow  us  upon  the  throne. 
We,  therefore,  have  resolved — in  order  that 
Succession  may  not  breed  fraternal  war — 
To  choose  the  next  successor  to  the  crown, 
In  everything  exactly  like  my  son. 
And  who  could  seem  more  worthy  of  that  place 
Than  he  whose  great  imperial  ancestor 
Has  died  a  martyr  for  this  country's  weal. 
Prince  Iturbide,  come  into  my  arms, 


[54] 

You  are  henceforth  the  crown  prince  of  the  realm ; 
Receive  a  blessing  from  your  father's  hand. 

Carlotta.     And  all  the  love  that  I  once  vainly  hoped 
I  might  bestow  on  children  of  my  own, 
Shall  now  be  heaped  upon  your  blessed  head. 

Prince  Iturbide.   May  heaven  long  preserve  such  parents'  life, 
That  head  and  heart  be  trained  by  their  advice 
Before  I  shall  be  called  to  rule  this  land. 

Max.     Dear  princess,  be  a  faithful  sister  hence. 

Princess  Iturbide.  I  cannot  well  express  my  thanks  in  words, 
My  honored  prince — beloved  brother  now — 
But  to  your  welfare,  and  my  nephew's  here, 
I  will,  from  this  day  forth,  devote  my  life. 

All.     Long  live  the  Emperor!     Long  live  the  Prince! 

{Blast  of  trumpets,  etc. 


SCENE  XIII. 

The  same.     DONNA  ARTEAGA.    DONNA  INEZ.     DR.  BASCH. 
Donna  Arteaga.     Have  mercy  !     Pardon  ! 
Inez-  Help  !  your  Majesty  ! 

Max.     Who  let  you  in  ?     And  what  does  all  this  mean  ? 

Dr.  Basch.     My  Emperor,  forgive  this  act  of  mine ; 
I  was  unable  to  restrain  their  zeal, 
They  are  the  wives  of  hostile  generals, 
Named  Arteaga,  Sire;  and  Salazar, 


[55] 

Who  have  been  taken  prisoners  of  war, 

And  with  some  others  are  condemned  to  death. 

Max.     How  now !     Without  my  knowledge  or  consent. 

Father  Vischer. 
"  Court-martialed  on  the  spot,"  says  the  decree. 

Carlotta.     No,  Max ;  on  such  a  day  no  blood  should  flow. 
Now  is  the  time ;  be  great  and  merciful. 

Dr.  Basch.     Sire,  do  not  let  these  women  beg  in  vain. 

Max.     With  pleasure  I  concede  your  ardent  wish ; 
No  executions  on  a  day  like  this.  //M-y 

Make  out  a  pardon ;  I  will  sign  it  now. 

£  ' 

Inez.     O,  mother,  mother,  all  is  well  again  ! 
The  sudden  change  quite  overpowers  me,  ^isX  ^Vj 

Despair  and  happiness  so  closely  knit. 

Max.  [writing].     You,  Father  Vischer,  messenger  of  death, 
Shall  be  the  herald  of  my  pardon  now. 
Make  haste,  that  you  may  reach  the  men  in  time. 

La  Bastida  [aside  to  Father  Vischer]. 
I  hope  you  understand  what  time  /  mean. 

Father  Vischer.     Your  Excellence,  I  do. 

Max.  Here,  hurry  off ! 

[Exit  Father  Vischer  with  pardon. 

Donna  Arteaga.     Your  Majesty,  my  language  is  too  weak 
To  thank  you  for — 

Max.  Nay,  my  good  woman,  go, 

And  be  as  happy  as  I  am  myself. 


[  56] 

Carlotta.     My  glorious  dreams  are  now  reality; 
Might,  right  and  mercy  are  combined  in  you. 

Max.     Come  on,  my  friends,  to  feast,  and  to  be  gay, 
And  celebrate  with  me  my  happiest  day. 


END    OF    SECOND    ACT. 


ACT    III. 

SCENE  I. 

Camp.      On  the  left,  at  a  table,  Austrians  and  Belgians  ;  on  the 

right,  Frenchmen, 
ist  Austrian. 

Come,  drink,  good  friends,  a  toast  to  war  and  camp; 
A  man  can  show  his  worth  on  battle  fields, 
Where  not  mere  favors  will  promote  to  rank, 
But  strength  and  courage  make  a  soldier's  way. 
To-day,  we  win  and  whip  the  enemy ; 
To-morrow,  they  whip  us.     A  jolly  life  ! 

2d  Austrian.     That  shows  the  man  from  wild  Bohemia. 
Had  you  been  born  a  Viennese,  like  me, 
You  would  adopt  the  higher  view  of  war. 
We  seek  not  fighting,  but  what  fighting  brings  ; 
The  motto,  "Right  and  Emp'ror,"— that  is  grand! 

ist  Belgian.     I  cannot  see  that  "  Right "  they  talk  about. 
I  wish  I  were  in  Belgium,  and  in  peace ; 
The  devil  take  the  whole  wild-goose  chase  here  ! 

ist  Austrian.     You  call  yourselves  good  soldiers  ? 

2d  Belgian.  No>  we  don>t 

We  were  enticed  with  glorious  promises 
To  settle  in  this  land,  with  wife  and  child, 


Armed,  it  is  true,  for  our  protection's  sake, 

But  not  to  hunt  a  distant  enemy, 

And  march  and  starve  with  neither  rest  nor  pay. 

jd  Austrian.     Such  men  as  you  disgrace  our  regiment. 
Had  not  those  men  been  always  pushed  ahead, 
We  should  have  had  the  glory  to  ourselves. 

ist  Frenchman. 

Do  you  mean  us  ?     You  soon  can  have  it  all, 
For  we  will  not  much  longer  be  the  fools 
To  do  your  Emp'ror's  work  without  reward. 
Be  not  too  sure  that  we  will  not  be  missed, 
And  that  you  will  not  long  for  our  brave  troops 
When  Juarez  is  pursuing  at  your  heels. 

2d  Austrian.     Go  when  you  will ;  for,  had  you  never  come, 
The  revolution  would  have  long  been  stopped, 
While  you  are  constantly  reviving  it 
By  murd'rous  pillaging— 

2d  Frenchman.  Parbleu  !  you  fool ! 

We  murderers  ?     What  does  your  government  ? 
It  butchers  all  the  prisoners  of  war. 

2d  Austrian. 
That  is  not  true ;  they  have  been  pardoned  all. 

2d  Frenchman.     Yes  ;  pardoned  after  it  was  just  too  late. 

ist  Belgian.     I  fear  the  clergy  is  to  blame  for  that. 

ist  Austrian.     Cursed  heretic  !    You  dare  insult  the  priests. 

ist  Frenchman. 

The  pris'ners'  funeral  procession !     Look ! — 
They  say  Porfirio  Diaz  was  reprieved. 


59  ] 


SCENE  II. 

The  same.      Funeral  procession,  followed  by  a  crowd. 
DONNA  ARTEAGA  and  INEZ. 

Donna  Arteaga.     Be  proud,  great  soldiers  of  an  Emperor! 
See  here  the  work  that  you  have  helped  to  do. 
Is  this  the  way  you  give  your  country  peace  ? 
Eternal  peace  you  give  us ;  that  is  true. 

2d  Austrian. 

Say,  woman,  you  had  better  hold  your  tongue; 
You  have  most  generously  been  allowed 
A  formal  funeral.     Are  these  your  thanks? 
Do  not  arouse  bad  blood,  but  go  your  way. 

Donna  Arteaga.     To  laud  the  Emperor  is  treachery? 
Wherever  I  may  go,  his  praise  shall  sound. 
How  smooth  his  speech  !     How  merciful  his  words ! 
And,  if  a  bloody  deed  then  follows  them, 
It  surely  is  a  mere  mistake — a  slight 
Misunderstanding  by  the  underlings. 
Be  proud,  you  soldiers  of  an  Emperor ! 
I  wish  you  joy  of  such  heroic  deeds ! 

2d  Frenchman.     You  see,  your  Emperor  did  murder  them. 

2d  Austrian. 

How  dare  you  use  such  language,  you  French  dog ! 
Quick !  swallow  that,  or  I  will  choke  it  down.  {Draws. 

ist  Frenchman.     Stand  back,  canaille !  {Draws. 

ist  Austrian.     Draw!     Knock  those  beggars  down  ! 

{Hand  to  hand  fight.     Exit. 


Donna  Arteaga. 

Now  do  your  work — hate,  jealousy  and  spite,— 
And  open  wide  a  road  for  just  revenge 
To  claim  atonement  for  this  bloody  crime. 

[Turning  toward  the  body, 

And  you  who  failed  in  life,  though  true  and  strong, 
In  death  you  will  revenge  your  people's  wrong ! 


SCENE  III. 

Palace  Garden  at  Mexico. 
PORFIRIO  DIAZ. 

Porfirio  Diaz.     I  wish  I  could  enjoy  this  lovely  day, 
As  in  my  early  childhood's  home, — and  yet, 
How  full  of  hardships  has  my  freedom  been; 
How  rich  in  comforts  is  my  prison  house. 
Perhaps  it  would  have  been  the  best  for  me, 
To  have  been  shot,  together  with  my  friends, 
Before  the  monarch's  mercy  saved  my  life, 
And  now  he  treats  me  better  than  a  friend. 
My  word,  my  oath  compel  me  hence  to  fly; 
My  heart  and  mind  are  held  in  friendship's  bonds. 
What  shall  I  do?     Where  can  I  find  advice? 
For  ever  gone  is  all  my  hope  in  life. 
Who  would  have  thought  a  Diaz  thus  could  sway 
Between  his  duty  and  his  heart's  desire. 
If  for  this  Emperor  I  draw  my  sword, 
I  am  a  traitor  to  my  people.     Fie ! 
Shall  I  then  waste  my  time  in  idleness? 


[6,  ] 

Or  shall  I  fly  from  here  to  join  my  troops, 

And  help  to  crush  this  man,  my  truest  friend? 

And  will  I  serve  my  people  after  all, 

If  I,  with  uncouth  hordes,  destroy  a  prince 

Who,  with  exalted  mind,  rules  strong  and  well, 

And  certainly  with  no  more  tyranny 

Than  Juarez,  freedom's  stern  defender,  does? 

But  who  is  to  succeed  the  Emperor? 

And  who  will  follow  then?     Not  on  the  vote 

Of  those  that  will  be  ruled  does  that  depend. 

No,  only  on  the  accident  of  birth ; 

Although  the  Emp'ror  says:  "The  Grace  of  God!" 

Oh !  if  he  would  shake  off  the  ties  of  birth, 

Be  satisfied  to  be  like  other  men, 

He  still  would  rule  by  his  superior  mind; 

Would  captivate  all  others  like  myself. 

And  Princess  Iturbide Bah !     No  use ! 


SCENE  IV. 

PORFIRIO  DIAZ.     MAXIMILIAN.     Later,  CARLOTTA  and 
PRINCESS  ITURBIDE. 

Max.     Porfirio,  sad  again,  and  all  alone? 
What  weighs  on  you;  is  it  imprisonment? 
Is  it  the  death  of  friends  that  bows  you  down? — 
Although  I  gladly  would  have  saved  their  lives. 
The  punishment  was  not  unmerited. 

Porfirio.     And  did  not  I,  like  all  those  others,  swear 
To  never  rest  until  you  had  been  destroyed? 


62 


Max.     Think  not  of  that;  that  problem  will  be  solved; 
Have  but  a  little  patience.     Ah  !  behold ! 
The  ladies  come.  \Enter  Carlotta  and  Princess  Iturbide. 

You  have  arrived  in  time 

To  help  disperse  the  whims  of  our  young  friend; 
Smooth  down  the  wrinkles  on  his  frowning  brow; 
I  know  you  can,  the  Princess  best  of  all. 
And  now  that  here  and  there  a  threatening  cloud 
Seems  to  obscure  the  sky  of  politics, 
And  unexpected  hindrances  increase 
The  difficulties  of  my  daily  work, 
I  more  than  ever  need  a  smiling  face; 
Let  me  soon  find  you  in  a  cheerful  mood, 
So  that  I  may  forget  the  cares  and  plaints 
And  all  the  trouble  of  the  council  room. 

Carlotta.     What  is  the  matter,  Max?    You  seem  oppressed. 

\Exit  Maximilian  and  Carlotta. 

SCENE  V. 
PORFIRIO  DIAZ  and  PRINCESS  ITURBIDE. 

Porfirio.     Fair  Princess 

Princess.  General ! 

Porfirio.  You  seem  to  be 

Of  serious  mind ;  in  fact  for  many  days 
I  have  observed  your  color  fade  away. 
You  do  not  suffer  ? 

Princess.  No ; — and  yet,  like  you. 

We  both  grew  up  among  the  balmy  woods, 


[63] 

And  cannot  thrive  here  in  the  hot-house  air. 
Wild  plants  will  never  prosper  when  confined, 
Though  nursed  and  fostered  with  the  greatest  care, 
The  leaves  hang  wilting  and  the  blossoms  fall ; 
They  need  the  forest's  peace  and  solitude. 

Porfirio.     You  talk  like  that,  though  you  are  not  in  bonds  ? 

Princess. 

Who  knows ;  perhaps  more  firmly  bound  than  you— 
But  no;  away  with  all  these  gloomy  thoughts. 
Tell  me  again  about  your  mountain  home; 
Of  farm,  and  house,  and  of  those  laughing  eyes 
That  archly  peeped  through  neighbor's  hawthorn  hedge 
Across  the  lawn  to  where  the  youngster  sat, 
Who  afterwards  became  a  general. 
That  always  makes  you  smile,  and  cheers  me  up. 

Porfirio.     Those  thoughts  of  home  now  also  make  me  sad. 
My  poor  old  father,  how  he  used  to  tell 
Of  vile  intrigues  and  lies  at  royal  courts; 
How  he  would  boast  of  free  republics'  rights. 
I  listened,  with  enthusiastic  glow— 
I  loved  and  hated  thoroughly;  and  now? 
I  am  no  more  the  boy  I  was,  no  more 
The  fiery  hater  of  all  royalty; 
For  I  have  seen  too  much,  to  follow  out, 
One-sidedly,  the  blind  instincts  of  man, 
That  might  have  led  me  to  a  righteous  end; 
Too  little,  to  feel  sure  of  what  is  right, — 
And  doubts  are  thus  revolving  in  my  mind. 

Princess.     I  wish  I  could  assist 


[  64  ] 

Porfirio.  Perhaps  you  can. 

As  through  the  thorny,  wildly  tangled  hedge 
Of  olden  times,  so  now,  I  see  again, 
Through  all  the  puzzling  labyrinth  of  doubt, 
Two  eyes  of  sparkling  black,  more  beautiful 
Than  all  the  eyes  I  ever  saw  before; 
Two  eyes  that  would  dispel  all  cares  and  doubt. 
Those  eyes,  adored  Princess,  they  are  yours. 

Princess.     O,  General! 

Porfirio.  Nay,  your  devoted  slave, 

And  at  your  feet  I  pledge  to  you  my  love ; 
For,  since  those  eyes  have  beamed  into  my  heart, 
I  prize  this  golden  cage  so  very  high 
That  even  if  the  door  stood  wide  ajar 
I  could  not  fly  away  from  where  you  are. 

Princess.     And  yet  you  swore  to  stand  by  Juarez'  cause, 
And  fight  till  Emp'ror  Max  should  be  subdued. 

Porfirio.     Say,  fairest,  that  you  will  control  my  deeds; 
Your  word  shall  be  my  oracle  in  all. 
If  to  obey  the  Emp'ror  you  command, 
I  hold  myself  from  other  pledges  free, 
Absolved  from  all  my  sins  through  purest  love. 
O,  speak ! 

Princess.     Not  here  and  now,  my  friend.     I  think 
I  hear  a  footstep  on  the  path  near  by. 
Quick,  General;  arise.     If  we  were  seen . 

Porfirio.     But  when  will  you  decide  my  pending  fate  ? 
When  may  I  have  a  word  with  you  alone  ? 

Princess.     Well,  let  me  see.     Come  late  to  my  boudoir ; 


[  65  ] 

Perhaps  I  then  will  give  my  new-made  slave 
A  difficult  commission  to  perform. 

Porfirio.     I  will  be  there.     But,  stay ;— how  can  I  come  ? 
The  spies,  that  La  Bastida  sends  to  watch, 
Patrol  about  the  palace  gates  at  night. 
He  does  not  trust  me  as  the  Emp'ror  does. 

Princess.     Yes,  yes,  I  know, — he  watches  everything; 
But  with  this  key,  that  fits  the  inside  gate, 
You  can  reach,  unobserved,  the  other  wing. 
And  now,  good-by.     I  pray  you  stay  no  more — 
Until  to-night,  my  wild,  romantic  friend. 

Porfirio.     Until  to-night,  my  much  beloved  queen.       [Exit.. 

Princess.     How  happy  he  departs,  my  poor  young  friend ; 
Just  like  all  men — for  they  are  all  alike. 
They  think  they  rule  the  world, — us  women,  too, — 
While  many  times  they  are  obeying  us. 
A  sigh,  a  smile,  perhaps — -a  negligee, 
And  out  of  balance  goes  philosophy,— 
The  scholar's  long-trained  logic  yields  to  love. 
I  hardly  try  to  win  this  man,  and  lo  ! 
The  fiery  Mexican  is  at  my  feet. 
O,  how  much  safer  do  I  hold  him  now 
Than  La  Bastida's  spies,  who  rather  tend 
To  make  him  feel  and  hate  his  prison  more, 
Than  to  prevent  so  bold  a  man  as  he 
From  breaking  out,  if  he  should  want  to  fly. 
He  thinks  the  key  that  I  have  given  him 
Will  open  him  my  loving  heart.     O,  no  ! 
It  locks  him  faster  to  my  Emp'ror's  throne- 
To  him  who  far  surpasses  every  one ; 


[66] 

And  how  much  grander,  mightier  could  he  be 

Did  not  that  weak  and  vacillating  wife 

Stand  by  his  side  to  check  and  weaken  him, 

When  strength  and  resoluteness  ought  to  rule. 

Yes;  through  her  foolish  influence  alone 

The  almost  crushed  rebellion  rises  new. 

If  mine  had  been  the  fate  that  she  enjoys, 

How  I  could  follow  in  his  genial  flight, 

Could  urge  him  when  he  doubts,  or  spur  him  on, 

And  from  his  head  the  crown  would  not  pass  on — 

Perhaps — not  to  another  woman's  son. 

Is  not  the  Padre  right  ?     Were  it  not  best 

For  him,  for  her,  and  for  the  government, 

If  from  the  Emp'ror  she  should  separate, 

Retire  from  court ;  still  better,  leave  the  land  ? 

So  that  while  she,  from  all  her  cares  relieved, 

Could  strengthen  her  weak  nerves  in  distant  climes, 

The  Emperor  could  rule  with  iron  hand. 

Yes  she  must  go;  but  how  to  find  a  way  ? 

How  can  I  cut  the  tie  of  clinging  love' 

With  which  she  has  attached  herself  to  him  ? 

How  can  I  mold  her  unsuspecting  mind 

To  suit  my  plan,  without  creating  fear, 

Or  possibly  suspicion  ? —    Will  that  do  ? — 

SCENE  VI. 
CARLOTTA  and  PRINCESS  ITURBIDE. 

Carlotta.     Where  is  the  General  ?     I  thought  him  here, 
Well  taken  care  of  in  your  company. 


[67] 

Princess.     Porfirio  Diaz  went  some  time  ago, 
But  not  as  sad  as  he  appeared  at  first. 
I  cheered  him  up  with  lively  pleasantries, — 
Though  it  is  difficult  to  joke,  and  smile, 
And  frolic,  in  these  hard  and  serious  times. 

Carlotta.     But,  Princess,  are  the  times  so  very  hard? 
I  thought  the  worst  had  long  been  overcome, 
And  better  days  were  now  in  store  for  us. 

Princess.     Yes ;  so  thought  I.     We  all  have  had  that  hope ; 
But,  if  what  Father  Vischer  says  is  true, 
The  bitter  dregs  of  care  have  not  been  drained. 

Carlotta. 
You  frighten  me,  dear  friend.     What  has  occurred  ? 

Princess.     O,  nothing  positive, — but  many  things. 
The  best  intentions  show  the  worst  results; 
The  certainty  of  peace  grows  daily  less ; 
The  troops  of  France  seem  slowly  to  retreat, 
And  close  upon  their  heels  the  rebels  come. 
Did  you  not  see  the  Emp'ror's  troubled  mien? 

Carlotta.     Yes ;  that  he  often  was  in  bitter  mood 
I  noticed;  but  I  did  not  think  it  was 
The  burden  of  the  cares  of  government. 
He  spoke  of  Miramare  with  regrets, 
And,  evidently  from  a  kind  regard, 
He  tried  to  hide  from  me  his  many  cares, 
That  I  might  rest  in  peace. 

Princess.  I  have  no  doubt ! 

Carlotta.     O,  how  much  more  contented  I  would  be 
If  he  confided  all  these  cares  to  me ; 


[  68] 

I  would  console  him,  and  inspire  new  hope. 
Why  cannot  women  help  a  little  more  ? 

Princess.     They  help  still  less,  I  fear,  than  they  might  do. 

Carlotta.     What  do  you  mean  ?     Could  you  suggest  a  way 
To  make  myself  more  useful  in  this  world; 
With  pleasure  I  would  seize  the  chance. 

Princess.  Perhaps ! 

Carlotta.     O,  speak,  dear  Princess,  for  I  long  to  hear! 

Princess.     You  see,  what  on  a  smaller  scale  we  call 
Society,  upon  a  larger  scale, 
Among  the  nations,  we  call  politics ; 
Just  as  the  families  associate, — 
And  every  one  would  like  to  be  the  first, — 
So  do  the  states  contend  for  wealth  and  might: 
As  we  have  quarrels,  they  declare  a  war; 
A  wedding,  here,  is  called  a  treaty,  there, — 
Both  tied  forever,  yet  so  apt  to  break; 
Our  school  for  scandal,  is  their  public  press, 
Discussing  everything,  without  much  truth. 
Now,  tell  me,  is  it  not  the  woman's  place 
To  manage  house  and  home,  and  smartly  judge 
One  neighbor's  weakness,  and  the  other's  worth : 
We  knit  the  lover's  knot;  we  manage  men; 
And,  in  a  word,  we  lead  society. 

Carlotta.     Of  course! 

Princess.  And  have  we  not,  in  politics, 

The  self-same  people,  with  the  same  weak  points  ? 
Why  should  we  not  be  fit  to  manage  them  ? 
I  do  believe,  your  Majesty,  we  could 


[  69  ] 

Be  better  diplomats  than  many  men, 
If  we  but  had  the  confidence  to  try. 

Carlotta.     Indeed,  how  often  I  have  thought  of  that 
Which  you  set  forth  in  clear,  convincing  words ; 
And  yet,  how  can  we  women  understand 
The  schemes  and  rank  intrigues  of  diplomats  ? 

Princess.     An  untrained  statesman  may  succeed,  at  times, 
By  ready  wit,  where  long-schooled  wisdom  fails. 
How  many  diplomats  have  had  the  chance 
To  gather  an  experience  such  as  ours  ? 
The  tender  bud  of  your  sweet,  child-like  mind, 
Has  suddenly  developed  to  a  flower 
Of  ripe  experience  and  of  serious  thought; 
The  child  has  grown  to  be  a  woman  now, 
All  in  a  short  but  most  eventful  time. 
Are  you  resolved  to  serve  your  noble  spouse, 
And  to  relieve  him  of  his  heavy  load 
Of  serious  cares  ?     Then  ask  him,  nay,  entreat, 
To  let  you  have  a  share  in  state  affairs. 

Carlotta.     With  every  hour  I  feel  more  confidence ; 
Thanks,  dearest  friend,  for  your  most  kind  advice; 
Of  course,  he  ought  to  share  with  me  his  cares, 
As  once,  in  by-gone  times,  we  shared  all  joys. 
I  hurry  to  him,  open  up  my  heart, 
And  offer  him  my  faithful  services; 
He  smiles,  astonished, — gently  shakes  his  head; 
Then  I  must  shrewdly  overcome  his  doubts, 
Till  he  consents, — a  victim  of  the  first 
Example  of  my  diplomatic  skill; 
And,  once  convinced,  he  will  confide  in  me; 


His  love  will  strengthen  me  where  I  am  weak, 

And  carry  me  along  till  I  succeed.  {Exit. 

Princess.     Perhaps  it  carries  you  to  distant  shore; 
Good  luck,  Carlotta,  if  we  meet  no  more. 

SCENE  VII. 

Audience  Room. 

MAXIMILIAN.     BAZAINE. 

Max.  Be  welcome,  Mare'chal;  I  am  much  pleased 
To  see  you  here,  at  court,  at  last. 

Bazaine.  I  bring, 

Your  Majesty,  my  dutiful  respects, 
And  I  have  come,  according  to  your  wish, 
As  soon  as  war  and  service  would  permit. 

Max.     For  all  past  service  take  my  hearty  thanks; 
But  with  more  pleasant  feelings  I  would  have 
Received  you  as  victorious  general, 
Than  now,  as  leader  of  retreating  troops. 
Where  is  the  courage  that  the  Frenchman  boasts? 
Is  it  our  neigbour's  threats  that  caused  your  fight  ? 

Bazaine.     Retreat,  your  Majesty,  is  not  a  flight ! 
The  troops  have  not  lost  courage,  nor  have  I; 
It  is  a  soldier's  duty  to  obey : 
I  did  not  ask  for  any  reasons,  Sire, 
But  followed  out  the  orders  I  received. 

Max.     How  can  that  be  ?     I  do  not  recollect 
That  I  have  given  orders  to  retreat. 


Bazaine.     I  had  the  orders  from  my  Emperor  ; 
I  am  a  Frenchman. 

Max.  [aside].         Ah  ! 

Bazaine.  But  no  command, 

I  knew,  would  come  from  France,  unless  the  same 
Had  been  approved  of  by  your  Majesty; 
And  when  two  monarchs  are  so  closely  joined 
By  friendship  and  by  interest  alike, 
There,  to  obey  the  one,  can  only  mean 
To  serve  the  other. 

Max.  [aside].      Can  he  really  mean 
To  play  a  treach'rous  game?     It  cannot  be! 
[AloudJ]     How  far  have  you  concluded  to  retreat? 

Bazaine.     Unless  some  counter  order  reaches  me, 
The  troops  will  concentrate  upon  the  coast ; 
Thence,  be  embarked  to  France  without  delay,— 
As  I  suppose  your  Majesty  must  know. 

Max.     Yes,  I  remember  now.     [Aside.]     How  can  it  be! 

Bazaine.     The  Miramare  treaty  is  fulfilled, 
By  which  the  troops  of  France  were  to  remain, 
In  Mexico,  no  longer  than  required, 
To  form  an  army  of  this  nation's  men, 
In  numbers  and  equipment  well  prepared 
To  guard  the  land. 

Max.  So  reads  the  treaty  :  yes, — 

But  it  is  easier  to  form  the  troops 
On  paper  than  it  is  in  flesh  and  blood. 
The  time,  it  seems  to  me,  has  not  arrived 
When  I  can  quite  rely  upon  these  troops, 


And,  therefore,  I  desire  you,  Marechal, 
To  change  your  plans,  and  to  advance  again  ; 
At  any  rate,  to  hold  your  present  points 
Until  I  further  correspond  with  France. 

Bazaine.     I  would  be  pleased  to  follow  your  command, 
Without  a  moment's  hesitation,  Sire ; 
As  long,  however,  as  my  orders  read 
To  move  my  army  to  the  eastern  coast, 
And  as  my  troops  are  still  without  their  pay, — 
Without  the  promised  ammunition,  too ; 
As  long  as  in  this  land,  instead  of  thanks, 
We  reap  but  envy  and  base  calumny  ; 
And,  till  the  wishes  of  your  Majesty 
Are  fully  in  accord  with  those  of  France, 
You  must  permit  me  strictly  to  obey 
The  stringent  orders  of  my  Emperor. 

Max,     Ah  !  now  I  see  you  are  no  general— 
A  common  tool !     Go,  blindly  to  obey 
The  blindly  given  orders,  while  you  may.  \Exit  Bazaine. 


SCENE  VIII. 

MAXIMILIAN.     Later,  LA  BASTIDA. 

Max.     Conceited  leader  of  those  mighty  troops, 
You  think  to  play  me  false  behind  my  back  ; 
Such  low  deceit  was  never  planned  in  France  ! 
I  will  despatch  a  message  to  my  friend, 
And  ask  him  to  recall  this  impudent 
And  faithless  man ; — and  yet,  dared  he  talk  thus, 


[  73  ] 

Did  he  not  know  the  Emperor's  intent  ? 

The  servant  but  reflects  his  master's  mind. 

Can  it  be  possible  ?     A  Bonaparte  ! 

Undaunted  as  he  stands  before  the  world, 

Dares  not  resist  the  threats  from  Washington. 

He  may  not  be  the  true,  unselfish  friend, 

The  great  philanthropist,  he  seemed  to  me  : 

That  sorrowful  suspicion  will  return, 

With  ever  growing  strength,  to  haunt  my  brain. 

Whatever  happens,  I  must  be  prepared ; 

I  must  reorganize  this  nation's  troopsr 

Provide  more  money— more,  and  more  again.     [.Rings  the  bellJ] 

Where  is  the  Bishop  ?     [to  Father  Vischer. 

Father  Vischer.  Still  in  waiting,  Sire. 

Max. 

Then  call  him.    [Enter  La  Bastida.]    Worthy  father,  I  approach 
Once  more,  in  quest  of  aid,  our  mother  church  : 
Will  she  again  assist  me,  as  before, 
With  means  and  with  advice,  enabling  me 
To  carry  out  the  great  unfinished  work  ? 

La  Bastida. 

The  church  assists  those  who  assist  the  church  : 
When  has  your  Majesty  assisted  us  ? 
She  gives  advice  to  those  who  follow  it : 
Your  Majesty  would  never  take  advice. 
Have  we  obtained  the  rights  to  which  we  are 
Entitled,  and  the  confiscated  lands, 
That  you,  so  long,  have  promised  to  return? 
And  did  the  government  lend  willing  ear 
To  counsel  and  petitions  from  the  church, 


[74] 

To  crush,  with  fearless  hand,  the  heretics, 
Who  grow  more  impudent  with  every  day  ? 
Are  not  the  Jews  and  Protestants  as  good 
As  Catholics,  to-day,  in  Mexico  ? 
They  hear  it  with  astonished  grief  in  Rome, 
Where  they  so  firmly  counted  on  this  throne. 

Max.     I  know,  good  father,  you  have  never  been 
In  full  accord  with  me  in  state  affairs ; 
Yet,  I  am  not  as  guilty  as  you  think : 
The  church  lands  will  be  soon  returned  to  you, 
Though  not  at  present;  they  must  not  be  wrenched 
From  those  who  farm  them  now ;  that  would  create 
An  army  of  new  enemies  at  once; 
And  to  indemnify  we  have  no  means. 
I  am  as  good  a  Catholic  as  you, 
And  serve  our  holy  church  with  all  my  heart ; 
But  all  religions  seem  to  come  from  God; 
As  from  the  star  of  truth  light  radiates, 
In  all  directions  and  in  thousand  rays, 
So  thousand  roads  lead  to  religious  truth; 
On  all  of  them  are  people  struggling  on; 
Each  wand'rer  sees  the  distant  goal  ahead, 
And  thinks  his  road  the  true  and  only  one. 
When  Jews  become  the  followers  of  Christ ; 
When  Protestants  adopt  the  Roman  faith ; 
Both  stray  away  from  their  accustomed  paths, 
And  slowly  grope  their  way  through  unknown  fields. 
No;  let  each  man  keep  on  his  own  straight  road : 
As  they  approach  perfection,  more  and  more, 
The  roads  draw  near  to  one  another,  too, 


[75] 

Until  from  here  and  there  we  recognize 
And  fully  understand  each  other  soon; 
Then,  hand  in  hand,  at  last,  in  fond  embrace, 
All,  re-united  in  one  faith,  will  march 
Into  the  gates  of  Paradise  regained. 

La  Bastida. 

Such  words !    And  in  your  mouth,  your  Majesty ! 
And  to  such  principles  we  should  give  aid ! 
O  pray,  draw  back  from  such  a  precipice ! 
One  road  alone  leads  to  eternity, 
But  thousands  lead  to  the  infernal  gates : 
Who  is  not  with  us  is  against  us,  Sire. 

Max.     It  seems  your  road  and  mine  are  not  the  same; 
Well,  follow  yours,  and  let  me  go  my  own ! 
Perhaps  some  future  day  the  two  will  meet. 

La  Bastida. 

Yes,  may  it  please  the  Lord !     But  till  you  turn 
Back  from  the  road  to  everlasting  sin, 
And  seek  the  church,  an  humble  penitent, 
Do  not  expect  advice  or  aid  from  us. 
O,  how  this  news  will  grieve  the  holy  Pope !  [Exit. 


SCENE  IX. 
MAXIMILIAN.     Later,  LARES,  CAMPOS  and  AGUIRRE. 

Max.     Another  hope  is  gone.     Well,  well,  I  can 
No  longer  feign  and  creep  before  this  man ; 
Proud  tyrant  of  the  church,  he  may  retain 
His  money,  and  discredit  me  at  Rome. 


[  76] 

O,  could  I  cross  the  sea  but  for  one  hour, 

See  face  to  face  my  great  imperial  friend, 

And  plead  my  cause  before  the  Pope  in  Rome, 

I  could  regain  their  confidence;  while  now, 

False  statements  are  misrepresenting  me.     [Rings.] 

[To  Father  Vischer.]     Ask  Lares,  Campos,  and  the  Ministers 

Who  may  be  still  in  waiting,  to  come  in.    [Exit  Father  Vischer.~\ 

I  must  strain  every  nerve  to  save  the  crown.     [Enter  Ministers.'] 

The  time  is  fast  approaching,  gentlemen, 

When  we,  dispensing  with  all  foreign  help, 

Must  trust  exclusively  to  our  own  strength : 

Above  all,  Campos,  find  the  needed  funds; 

I  feel  as  if  I  were  bound  hand  and  foot ! 

Procure  more  means. 

Campos.  The  treasury  is  bare, 

The  debt  is  heavy,  and  the  people  poor. 
We  cannot  trust  to  our  resources  now ; 
We  must  depend  on  France,  or  else  on  Rome. 

Max*  From  France  we  can  expect  no  further  help 
As  long  as  we  are  backward  with  the  pay; 
Besides,  their  troops  will  soon  embark  for  home. 

Ministers.     How?     Is  it  possible;  they  surely  go? 

Max.     And  Rome — the  Bishop  left  with  angry  threats 
Because  the  Church's  lands  were  not  returned; 
And  I  am  tired  of  all  his  haughty  ways. 

Campos.     Then  I  give  up  all  hope,  and  must  retire; 
The  office  that  I  undertook  with  fear 
And  carried  on  with  cares,  I  now  resign 
With  sorrow  into  your  imperial  hands. 


[77] 

Max.     And  with  regret  I  take  the  office  back. 

Aguirre.     Of  course,  without  the  blessings  of  the  church, 
No  other  education  can  succeed. 
Your  Majesty  will  graciously  permit 
That  I  return  to  Rome. 

Max.  Go  where  you  like  ! 

There  are  still  others.    \To  Father  Vischerl\    What  is  that  you 
bring  ? 

Father  Vischer.     Here  is  the  copy  of  a  telegram, 
From  Washington,  to  Count  of  Montholon. 

[Gives  it  to  Maximilian. 

Max.  [reading].     It  threatens  serious  consequences  soon, 
Unless  the  troops  of  France  at  once  depart. 
[Aside.']     So,  then,  my  first  impression  was  correct ! 

Lares.     O,  Sire,  when  all  these  gentlemen  retire, 
I  cannot  form  another  cabinet. 
Put  in  my  place  another,  stronger,  man, 
To  form  a  better  group  of  ministers. 

Max.     Go,  all  of  you ;  great  men,  in  prosperous  times, 
But  miserable  cowards  in  distress ; 
And  if  in  all  this  land  there  is  no  man 
With  head  and  heart  to  fill  your  offices, 
I  will  hold  out,  fight  to  the  bitter  end, 
And  lead  my  troops  to  victory  or  death. 
If  I  but  had  a  messenger  to  France 
Whom  I  could  trust  with  utmost  confidence ! 
I  cannot  stir  from  my  important  post, 
And  written  words  are  dead ;  they  lack  the  force 
Of  human  voice,  the  pleading  of  the  eye. 


[78] 

I  think  and  muse,  but  cannot  find  the  man ; 
Am  I,  indeed,  already  so  forlorn  ? 
Is  there,  in  all  this  empire,  far  and  wide, 
Not  one  who  understands  me  thoroughly  ? 
Not  one  I  can  implicitly  believe  ? 


SCENE  X. 

The  same.     CARLOTTA  and  FATHER  VISCHER. 

Carlotta.     O,  yes,  dear  Max,  you  still  have  such  a  friend, 
In  whom,  without  reserve,  you  may  confide; 
How  is  it  that  you  never  thought  of  him  ? 

Max.     Why,  you  surprise  me  !     Speak,  who  is  this  friend  ? 
Carlotta.     One  of  the  gentler  sex ;  it  is  your  wife. 

Max.     My  darling  child,  I  often  think  of  you 
In  these  depressing  days;  and,  every  time, 
Your  image  has  consoled  and  brightened  me; 
But,  now,  I  need  a  diplomatic  friend, 
A  trusted  messenger  in  politics. 

Carlotta.     And  just  that  place  it  is  I  come  to  ask; 
For  not  alone  a  husband's  loving  wife, 
An  Emp'ror's  worthy  consort  I  would  be. 
I  am  no  more  the  inexperienced  child 
That  I  was  once,  not  many  months  ago; 
No,  at  your  side  I  learned  so  many  things, 
I  formed  my  own  opinions,  heard,  and  saw; 
For  many  days,  I  had  the  wish  to  be 
Of  greater  service,  but  I  feared  to  speak. 


[  79  ] 

I  am  encouraged  now,  and  full  of  hope; 
O,  trust  in  me,  as  I  trust  in  myself! 

Max.     I  am  astonished!     This  determined  tone— 
Is  it  my  gentle  wife  who  speaks  like  this  ? 
How  could  you  go  on  such  an  embassy  ? 
It  takes  much  training  and  experienced  skill, 
A  ready  wit,  combined  with  cautious  tongue. 

Carlotta.     The  honest,  open  way  will  serve  us  best ; 
And,  think  of  it,  I  know  my  mission's  aim 
Before  you  have  discussed  with  me  your  plans : 
You  want  to  reconcile  his  Holiness, 
And  keep  upon  such  friendly  terms  with  France 
That  they  will  further  help  with  means  and  troops. 

Max.     Yes;  you  are  right. 

Carlotta.  Well,  who  can  bring  about 

This  reconciliation  like  a  wife  ? 

Max.     You  tempt  me  almost  to  concede  your  wish. 

Carlotta.     What  so  persuasive  as  a  woman's  tongue  ? 
And  who  would  strive  with  greater  zeal  than  I 
To  carry  out  the  mission  to  success  ? 

Max.     I  am  convinced,  my  great,  my  glorious  wife! 
How  little  did  I  know  you  heretofore ; 
I  should  be  grateful  that  an  adverse  fate 
Has  shown  you  in  such  brilliant  light  to  me. 
You  are  by  far  the  worthiest  of  all ; 
No  other  shall  be  my  embassador, 
Although  your  absence  will  be  hard  to  bear. 
Go,  gentlemen,  you  are  no  more  retained, 
For  more  than  I  have  lost  I  have  regained. 


[  8o 


SCENE  XI. 

Boudoir  of  Princess  Iturbide. 
PRINCESS  ITURBIDE.     Then,  FATHER  VISCHER. 

Princess.     He  comes  !    How  now  ?    Why,  Father,  is  it  you  ? 
Father  Vischer.     Do  I  intrude  ? 

Princess.                                      Q,  no  !    What  secret  scheme, 
What  pressing  business,  brings  you  here  so  late  ? 
Father  Vischer.     Carlotta  goes  to  France. 
Princess.  What ;  can  it  be  ? 

Father  Vischer.     This  very  night,  with  utmost  secrecy. 
You  laid  the  plan  with  your  accustomed  skill ; 
The  whole  affair  appeared  most  natural. 
Well,  she  once  gone,  we  have  him  in  our  hands ; 
However,  there  is  something  else  to  do. 
Princess.     What  else  ? 
Father  Vischer.             Porfirio  ! 
Princess.                                       \  hold  him  safe. 
Father  Vischer.     H'm  !  do  not  be  so  very  sure  of  that  ; 
Although,  indeed,  if  he  could  see  you  now, 
In  this  most  lovely,  dreamy  deshabile, — 
That  almost  is  enough  to  tempt  a  priest 

Princess.     There— never  mind ;  the  church  does  not  expect 
Such  ardent  zeal. 

Father  Vischer.     Well,  well ;  I  mean  to  say 
He  would  be  quite  enchanted,  like  myself; 


But  yet,  with  nature's  readily  inflamed, 

Reaction  often  follows  very  soon, 

And  what  this  morning  he  so  hotly  swore, 

He  may  regret  before  another  day ; 

So  when  he  comes  to-night 

Princess.  You  seem  to  know  ! 

Father  Vischer.     That  brought  me  here. 

Princess.  You  spy  !     What  shall  I  do  ? 

\Porfirio  appears  at  the  door. 

Father  Vischer.     You  ought  to  forge  the  iron  while  it's  hot. 
What  is  the  use  of  wasting  many  words  ? 
You  have  bewitched  him  with  your  dazzling  charms ; 
A  few  more  woman's  tricks,  a  little  wine, 
Some  dallying  and  ogling,  and  so  on ; 
Until  his  brains  are  crazed  with  wine  and  love: — 
Then,  I  surprise  you — quick — a  kiss— a  ring,— 
And  I  will  bless  the  matrimonial  bonds. 

Princess.     No !  no !     That  cannot  be !    Speak  not  like  that ! 
I  have  gone  far  enough  and  risked  my  name 
To  fetter  Diaz  to  the  Emp'ror's  throne. 
I  will  not  bind  my  heart,  my  life,  to  him, 
Whose  sudden  wooing  fills  me  with  contempt 
More  than  with  love.     No !     That  I  cannot  do ! 
Not  for  the  church ;  nor  for  the  government. 
And,  oh !  not  for  the  Emperor  himself! 
Until  you  find  some  other  better  means, 
You  might  as  well  keep  your  advice.  [.Exit. 

Father  Vischer.  I  say  !     \Hurries  after  her. 


[82] 

SCENE  XII. 

PORFIRIO  DIAZ. 

Porfirio.     Is  this  a  dream?     Is  it  reality? 
If  true,  why  did  I  not  destroy  that  brute 
In  priestly  garments ;  and  that  demon,  too, 
Who  lured  me  on  by  her  angelic  guise ! 
And  yet,  I  am  awake ;  this  is  her  room ; 
There's  where  she  spoke  those  cruel,  fiendish  words 
That  staggered  me  until  I  almost  swooned! 
Contempt,  where  I  expected  love  for  love ! 
With  vile  deceit  you  meant  to  fetter  me ; 
False  traitoress,  you  know  not  what  it  means 
To  trifle  lightly  with  a  Diaz's  heart. 
'Twas  Providence  that  led  me  here  in  time 
To  hear  you  two  divulge  your  filthy  schemes : 
How  true,  O,  father,  were  your  warning  words ! 
This  princely  court  seems  suddenly,  to  me, 
A  vicious  net  of  lies,  and  of  deceit. 
Can  such  a  rotten  hull  contain  sound  fruit  ? 
Shall  I  continue  my  research,  to  find 
My  father's  words  more  thoroughly  fulfilled, 
The  Emp'ror  a  deceiver,  like  the  rest  ? 
Why  not  ?     I  would  not  be  at  all  surprised  ; 
My  faith  in  truth  and  purity  is  gone ; 
A  horror  seizes  me  for  all  of  you. 
Away,  away  from  these  accursed  halls  ; 
The  very  walls  oppress  and  stifle  me. 
This  key,  that  was  to  fasten  me  in  chains, 


[83] 

It  shall  unlock  the  gates  of  freedom  now. 
One  bitter  lesson  I  shall  take  from  here ; 
False  woman's  love,  I  tear  thee  from  my  heart ! 
My  life  shall  be  devoted  to  my  work  ; 
Away  to  my  old  flag  with  heart  and  soul, 
"  Destruction  "shall  be  henceforth  my  parole! 


SCENE  XIII. 
MAXIMILIAN.     CARLOTTA. 

Carlotta.     The  storm  is  howling!     What  a  fearful  night! 
And  nearer  draws  the  cruel  parting  hour,— 
The  hour  in  which  we  want  to  say  so  much, 
Yet  find  so  little  in  our  grief  to  say. 

Max.     With  you,  my  guardian  angel  flies  away, 
And  leaves  me  to  a  dark,  uncertain  fate ; 
I  feel  as  if  I  should  not  part  from  you — 
As  if  I  ought  to  sail  with  you  for  home ; 
There,  where  on  lovely  Miramare's  shore 
The  waves  of  Adria  so  gently  roll, 
Up  in  the  forest,  where  you  meant  to  build 
The  little  villa — do  you  recollect  ? 
There  we  could  sit,  in  cosy  twilight's  hour, 
And  think  of  by-gone  times,  as  of  weird  dreams. 

Carlotta.     The  Virgin's  promise  is  not  yet  fulfilled ; 
The  "mighty  realm"  is  sure  to  be  your  own. 

Max. 
Yes ;  you  are  right ;  those  words  will  yet  come  true  ; 


[84] 

They  give  me  back  my  strength  and  confidence, 
And  drive  away  those  dark  presentiments. 

Father  Vischer. 

Your  pardon,  Sire.     The  major  urges  haste  : 
Unless  the  start  is  made  before  the  dawn, 
He  cannot  guarantee  a  safe  escape. 

Max.     Then  it  must  be  ;  good-by  my  darling  wife ! 
Carlotta.     Hold  out ;  be  strong  until  we  meet  again ! 
Max.     "Until  we  meet  again;"  how  long,  how  long, 
That  sounds  to  me ! 

Carlotta.  Farewell!  [Exit. 

Max.  Farewell !     Farewell ! 


END    OF    THIRD    ACT. 


ACT  IV. 

SCENE  I. 

Camp  in  Mejids    Valley.        The  same  houses  as  in  the  First 
Scene  of  the  Second  Act,  only  somewhat  demolished. 

MAXIMILIAN.     DR.  BASCH.     FATHER  VISCHER. 

Basch.     How  did  you  pass  the  night  ?     How  do  you  feel  ? 

Max.     Bad,  Doctor,  bad ;  how  can  a  man  repose 
Beneath  a  roof  that  he  has  helped  destroy  ? 

Basch.     Who  knows  ;  perhaps  it  would  have  been  the  best 
If  we  had  followed  Castelnau's  advice, 
And  joined  the  French  when  they  embarked  for  home. 

Father  Vischer.     Obey  that  haughty  messenger  ?     Indeed  1 
Max.     Am  I  a  puppet  in  the  hands  of  France  ? 

Go  where  she  says  ?     Come  back  when  I  am  called  ? 

Should  I,  who  gave  up  happiness  and  home 

For  crown  and  fame,  now  cowardly  retreat, 

And  leave  this  country  in  chaotic  state  ? 

No ;  no ;  I  stay,  in  spite  of  French  advice ; 

My  presence  only  can  save  Mexico. 

How  now  ?  you  look  so  pensive,  Doctor  ;  speak. 

Basch.     We  are  surrounded  by  the  enemy, 
And  may  be  beaten  hopelessly  to-day. 


[86] 

What  is  the  object  of  such  desp'rate  fight  ? 
What  is  the  use  to  force  good  government 
Upon  a  race  that  does  not  seem  to  care  ? 
Unless  a  great  majority  stand  firm, 
And  ready  to  defend  the  new  regime, 
You  sacrifice  your  life  and  peace  in  vain, 
We  do  not  owe  these  people  anything; 
We  came  to  aid  them  with  experience 
And  knowledge,  that  on  many  battle  fields 
The  older  world  had  dearly  bought  with  blood, 
'Mid  constant  changes  during  centuries. 
It  seems,  however,  as  if  every  state 
Must  gain  its  own  experience  through  blood, 
So  let  us  leave  them  to  contend  and  fight, 
While  we  return  to  our  old,  peaceful  home; 
There,  you  will  rule,  as  once,  among  your  friends, 
A  blessing  to  them  all,  and  blest  yourself. 

Max.     Yes,  you  are  right,  seen  from  your  point  of  view; 
For,  like  Diogenes,  housed  in  his  tub, 
You  judge  the  world  with  true  philosophy, 
But  do  not  know  how  wounded  honor  galls. 

Basch.     We  must  discern  two  kinds  of  honor,  Sire : 
The  outward,  false  one,  others  may  defile; 
The  inward,  true  one,  none  but  our  own  deeds. 

Father  Vischer.     Then  let  true  honor  be  your  action's  guide; 
Defend  your  rights,  whatever  others  think. 
Great  men  would  never  have  achieved  success 
If  they  had  catered  but  to  public  praise; 
Those  who  accomplish  greatness,  stand  alone. 
Think  of  our  Lord,  how  faithfully  he  fought, 


[87] 

Until  blind'  masses  nailed  him  to  the  cross. 

It  is  the  mission  of  your  Majesty 

To  save  this  country  from  wild  anarchy, 

And  civilize  the  land  through  church  and  law 

If  you  fulfil  this  duty  faithfully, 

The  Virgin's  words  will  likewise  be  fulfilled: 

"A  mighty  realm''  will  be  your  own  at  last. 

Max.     Yes:  I  must  fight,  and  manfully  hold 
If  I  but  had  the  troops  and  generals. 


out 


Father  Vischer.     Above  all  things,  conciliate  the  church  ; 
She  will  procure  the  means  to  raise  new  troops, 
And,  as  for  leaders,  two  of  them  are  here : 
For  Marquez,  just  arrived,  and  Miramon, 
They  who  were  stricken  from  the  army  roll. 

Max.     What?     Can  it  be?     O,  thanks  to  Providence. 
Quick;  bring  them  here.     What  unexpected  luck! 

Father  Vischer.     See,  here  they  come. 


SCENE  II. 

The  same.     MIRAMON,  MARQUEZ,  MEJIA  and  Staff. 

Marquez.  Your  Majesty! 

Miramon.  My  Prince ! 

Max.     Arise.     Be  welcome,  worthy  friends  in  need ; 
You  are  my  friends  indeed;  you  must  forget 
That  under  pressure  of  some  court  intrigues 
I  was  misled  to  lose  my  faith  in  you; 


Receive  again  my  fullest  confidence, 
And  be  once  more  my  trusted  generals. 

Marquez.     Ah,  Sire,  your  magnanimity  is  great. 

Miramon.     Trust  me  once  more,  and  I  will  prove  to  you 
My  gratitude  in  deeds  instead  of  words. 

Max.     That  sounds  like  Miramon ;  I  know  you  will. 
Well,  you  shall  have  the  chance;  on  every  side 
We  are  surrounded,  and  the  greedy  foe 
Expects  to  see  anon  our  flag  of  truce ; 
But  he  shall  dearly  buy  his  victory ! 
You,  Marquez,  hurry  to  the  Capitol; 
With  hundred  horseman  you  must  cut  your  way; 
If  you  can  hold  the  city  till  to-night, 
I  shall  be  able  to  relieve  your  force; 
These  charts  and  papers,  you  will  find,  contain 
Your  full  instructions,  and  the  battle's  plan. 
The  Lord  be  with  you ! 

Marquez.  I  will  hurry,  Sire ! 

Max.     You,  Miramon,  shall  stay  about  me  now, 
And  be  my  trusted  friend  as  formerly. 
Forgive  me,  and  forget  my  old  mistake. 

Miramon.     It  was  forgotten  long  ago  by  me; 
I  am  prepared  to  serve  my  Emperor, 
And  for  his  cause  shed  my  last  drop  of  blood. 

Max.     Thanks,  Miramon ;  select  my  fleetest  horse, 
And  take  at  once  command  upon  the  left, 
From  where  I  soon  expect  a  fierce  attack. 
Prince  Salm  will  give  you  all  advice  you  need.    \Exit  Miramon^. 


[  89] 

With  such  assistance  Hapsburg  cannot  fail  ; 

Instead  of  hoisting  our  white  flag  of  truce, 

Unfurl  the  proud  imperial  banner  now, 

As  sign  that  we  are  ready  for  the  fray. 

[ To  staff.}     Come,  gentlemen,  to  yonder  higher  ground, 

From  where  we  can  survey  the  battle-field. 

{Maximilian  and  staff  go  toward  a  height  in  the  background. 


SCENE  III. 

DONNA  ARTEAGA.      DONNA  INEZ.      MAXIMILIAN  and  Staff, 
Later,  Messenger. 

Donna  Arteaga.     So  we  must  fly  from  home  a  second  time, 
Although  my  strength  will  hardly  carry  me, 
Hark  !  there  again  the  guns  are  thundering  forth, 
Just  as  they  did  when  our  brave  men  were  slain, 
And  our  defenceless  homes  were  burned  and  wrecked. 
Good  luck  to  them  if.  they  bring  that  revenge 
For  which  I  pine  and  pray  by  night  and  day. 

Inez.     Do  not  say  that;  the  Emp'ror  was  so  good 
And  gracious  to  us,  and  he  spoke  to  me 
With  kind  regard,  just  like  a  citizen; 
I  hoped  that  they  would  hoist  the  flag  of  truce ; 
He,  sadly  smiling,  promised  me  he  would, 
When  I  implored  him  for  his  mother's  sake, 
Last  night  when  I  had  served  his  frugal  meal. 

Donna  Arteaga. 
No !     Vengeance !     Vengeance !     Come  away  from  here ! 

[Exit  both. 


Max.     Mejia,  look;  what  is  that  on  the  hill? 
Can  it  be  Juarez'  flag?     It  is  not  ours. 

Mejia.     It  is  the  enemy's !     Our  men  retreat ! 

ist  Soldier.     Betrayed  by  Marquez !    He  has  joined  the  foe  ! 

Mejia. 
What  ?     Marquez  ?     Man,  you  do  not  speak  the  truth ! 

ist  Soldier.     By  all  that's  sacred,  General,  I  do ! 
First,  he  rode  briskly  with  his  little  band 
The  shortest  road  to  reach  the  Capitol, 
Examining  his  orders  and  his  plans; 
But  when  he  found  our  regiments  exposed, 
While  Juarez  seemed  so  strong,  he  slowed  his  pace, 
Spoke  whisp'ring  to  the  other  officers, 
Then  left  the  road,  and  finally  rode  straight 
In  the  direction  of  the  hostile  camp; 
And  I  alone  of  all  the  horsemen  turned, 
And  hurried  back  to  bring  you  warning,  Sire. 

Max.     I  never  shall  forget  your  services ; 
The  loss,  however,  is  beyond  repair; 
The  others  in  possession  of  our  plans  ! 
Mejia,  how  can  such  rank  treason  be? 
To  break  his  newly  sworn  allegiance  thus ; 
And  Miramon — will  he  betray  us  too? 

Mejia.     Not  he;  I  know  his  heart;  it  is  like  gold! 

2d  Soldier.     Send  troops  immediately  to  our  left  wing, 
Or  we  will  not  be  able  to  hold  out. 

Max.     We  are  without  a  single  corps  to  send; 
The  last  reserves  were  ordered  to  the  front. 


[  9i   ] 

$d  Soldier.     Fly !    Quick,  your  Majesty !    The  center  breaks  ! 

4th  Soldier.     The  left  wing  is  completely  beaten,  Sire ! 
Though  Miramon  fought  in  our  very  midst, 
Just  like  a  lion,  we  were  overwhelmed. 
I  saw  him  fall  into  the  victor's  hands. 

Max.     My  horse !     My  sword  !  [Hurries  into  the  house. 

General.  Come  on !     One  last  attempt ! 

SCENE  IV. 
The  same.     PORFIRIO  DIAZ. 

Porfirio  [from  the  hft\.     Here !     Follow  me ! 

[From  all  sides  soldiers  rush  in  fighting. 
Mejia.  Now  for  it,  man  to  man  ! 

Porfirio.     Hold!     Do  not  fire!     Resistance  is  in  vain; 
Save  useless  waste  of  life;  give  up  your  swords. 

[An  officer  takes  the  swords. 
Max.  [rushing  in\     Porfirio ! 

Porfirio.  Maximilian  !     No !     Stand  back ! 

Place  him  in  custody,  and  take  his  sword. 

Max.  [slowly  giving  up  his  sword\ 
Is  this  the  man  whom  I  have  saved  from  death, 
And  whom  I  lovingly  drew  to  my  heart  ? 
Porfirio,  has  the  war  turned  you  to  stone  ? 

Porfirio  [harshly[. 
Away!     [Turning aside.']     O,  what  a  painful  victory ! 


[92] 

SCENE  V. 

Tuileries  Library  of  ist  Scene,  Act  I. 
NAPOLEON  III.      DRUYN  DE  LHUYS. 

Druyn.     I  warned  you,  Sire,  we  cannot  keep  it  up; 
The  papers  timidly  cry:   "Grand  success," 
But  everybody  knows  we  had  to  yield 
To  brazen  threats  of  the  United  States. 

Napoleon.     Bah  !     Do  not  worry  me  ;  I  am  not  well. 
We  were  not  beaten  at  a  single  point ; 
The  troops  have  done  their  duty  manfully, 
And  now  return  with  fame  and  victory. 

Druyn.     Your  famous  uncle,  when  at  Moscow's  gate — 

Napoleon.     Enough  !    Did  Satan  prompt  that  name  to  you  ? 
It  seems  to  persecute  me  day  and  night. 

Druyn.     I  only  mean 

Napoleon.  I  know  it ;  you  mean  well — 

Excuse  my  temper,  and — no  more  to-day. 

[Exit  Druyn.     Enter  Jean.} 
What  is  it  now  ?     Am  I  to  have  no  rest  ? 

Jean.     Arrived  from  Mexico  this  very  day, 
Empress  Carlotta  begs  your  Majesty — 

Napoleon.     The  Empress  here,  in  France  !     Impossible  ! 
What  does  she  want  ?     No,  no  ;  I  am  not  well — 
I  can — I  will  not  see  the  woman.     Go  ! 
Has  everything  combined  to  drive  me  mad  ? 


[  93  ] 

SCENE  VI. 
NAPOLEON.     CARLOTTA. 

Carlotta.     Stand  back  ;  I  am  determined  to  be  heard  ! 
Napoleon  ! 

Napoleon.     I  am  surprised,  madame, 
To  see  you  here. 

Carlotta.  O,  my  imperial  friend, 

If  you  had  well  considered  our  sad  fate, 
And  carried  to  the  end  your  glorious  plans, 
Instead  of  listening  to  low  envy's  voice, 
This  painful  task  would  have  been  spared  to  me. 

Napoleon.     I  always  follow  out  my  own  intents, 
And  I  have  likewise  done  so  in  your  case. 
However,  I  must  ask  to  be  excused ; 
I  must  avoid  excitement ;  I  am  ill. 

Carlotta.     He  who  would  rule  the  destinies  of  men, 
Whose  single  word  determines  weal  and  woe, 
He  cannot  be  excused  when  on  his  aid 
Depends  an  Emp'ror's  and  a  nation's  fate. 

Napoleon.     Well,  then,  I  beg  of  you  to  make  it  short ! 

Carlotta.     I  wish  I  could  display  before  your  eyes 
A  view  of  Mexico  in  her  distress ;  • 
It  would  be  more  impressive  than  all  words. 
Wnile  everything  appears  to  favor  us, 
And  we  seem  sure  to  triumph  in  the  end, 
Behold,  without  advice  or  warning  word, 


[  94] 

The  troops  of  France  are  suddenly  withdrawn, 
And  close  behind  them,  pressing  on  their  heels, 
Come  Juarez'  unresisted  rebel  hordes. 
We  firmly  counted  on  the  French  support, 
We  had  a  right  to  do  so,  by  our  pact. 

Napoleon.     It  is  not  safe  to  count  on  unpaid  troops. 
Carlotta.     The  Emperor  rewarded  all  your  men, 
As  far  as  our  contracted  means  would  reach. 

Napoleon.     Who  is  to  blame  for  such  contracted  means  ? 
The  Emperor,  while  he  has  ample  time 
To  fill  his  treasury  and  train  his  troops, 
Devotes  himself  to  school  laws  and  fine  arts; 
Then,  blindly  yielding  to  the  Bishop's  threats, 
He  promises  to  give  the  church-lands  back, 
And,  in  vain-glorious  consciousness  of  power 
Condemns  the  prisoners  of  war  to  death, — 
From  weakness,  swaying  thus  to  cruelty. 

Carlotta.     Where  he  shows  energy,  you  call  him  cruel ! 
Where  he  is  merciful,  you  call  him  weak ; 
Why,  then,  did  you  select  him  for  your  plans, 
And  strongly  urge  him  to  accept  the  crown. 

Napoleon.     I  never  did  select  nor  urge  him  on  ! 
The  vote  of  Mexico  elected  him. 

Carlotta.     You  need  no  longer  make  that  false  pretence  ; 
We  long  have  known  that  not  the  people's  vote, 
But  that  Bazaine's  intrigues  controlled  the  choice. 

Napoleon.     If  he  knew  that — imagined  that  he  knew— 
And  was  so  anxious  for  the  people's  weal, 
Why  did  he  not  resign  the  worthless  crown, 


t  95  J 

And  leave  a  realm  that  never  wanted  him  ? 
Why  was  my  envoy,  Castelnau,  dismissed, 
In  anger,  when  he  warned  him  to  resign  ? 

Carlotta.     Because  his  honor  forced  him  so  to  act. 
He  felt  inspired,  and  thought  he  might  succeed, 
And  lead  the  people  on  to  better  ways. 

Napoleon.     Bah  !     Honor,  when  we  deal  witfi  multitudes  ? 
No  ;  merely  his  ambition  blinded  him  ; 
A  strong  desire  to  deck  his  foolish  head 
A  little  longer  with  a  glittering  crown. 

Carlotta.     No  further,  I  implore !     Do  not  be  hard  ! 
Think  how  the  Emperor  is  fighting,  now, 
With  small  support  against  a  mighty  foe; 
Perhaps  already  captured,  01 — still  worse — 
I  dare  not  think  of  it.     O,  send  him  troops  ! 
Provide  more  means  to  carry  out  the  work  ; 
Fear  not  that  proud  republic's  threatening  voice, 
Nor  yet  the  discontent  of  men  in  France. 

Napoleon  \angrily\. 
I  fear  not  foreign  folks,  nor  those  at  home  ! 

Carlotta.     Then  do  not  let  me  kneel  here  at  your  feet 
In  vain,  for  my  poor  husband, — for  your  friend. 

Napoleon.     I  pray  you,  do  not  kneel,  madame;  arise. 
I  can  no  more  deplete  my  treasury, 
No  longer  sacrifice  my  people's  blood, 
To  further  help  a  crank's  fantastic  whims ; 
I  must  confess,  I  quite  misjudged  the  man. 

Carlotta.     O,  what  a  cruel,  sneering,  heartless  tone ! 


1 96  ] 

And  so  you  cannot  help  the  faithful  friend 
Who  fought  far  more  for  you  than  for  himself. 

Napoleon.     I  helped  him  quite  enough — indeed,  too  much; 
Now,  he  must  help  himself,  or  meet  his  fate. 

Carlotta.     That  cannot  be  your  final  word? 

Napoleon.     9  It  is ! 

Carlotta.     O,  Max!    Then  you  are  doomed  without  a  hope! 
Why  did  you  ever  trust  this  vicious  snake, 
This  low  deceiver,  this  cold-blooded  wretch ! 

Napoleon.     Control  your  tongue,  for  I  will  stand  no  more ! 
Your  sex  alone  protects  you  from  my  wrath; 
Do  you  forget,  madame,  to  whom  you  speak? 

Carlotta.     I  wish  I  could  forget  that  I  now  stand 
Before  my  husband's  treach'rous  murderer. 

[Napoleon  sinks,   as  if  paralyzed,  into  a  chair.      Carlotta 

tears  off  her  diadem,  and  throws  it  at  his  feet.~\ 
Take  back  the  crown  that  you  have  thrust  on  us, 
And  give,  O  give  us  back  our  happiness. 
With  glittering  words  you  tempted  us  from  home, 
Incited  the  ambition  of  your  friend. 
In  glowing  tints  the  future  was  portrayed: 
How  certain  was  the  French  assistance  then ! 
How  cowardly  were  those  confederates 
Who  wisely  had  withdrawn  from  all  your  plans ! 
What  grand  contempt  you  had  for  that  new  world 
That  boldly  warned  you  not  to  interfere. 
Alas !     He  yielded  to  your  urgent  wish, 
And  sacrificed  his  life  and  peace  for  you; 
Then,  at  the  moment  when  success  seems  sure, 


[97  ] 

The  great  republic's  threats  so  frighten  you, 
That,  though  unbeaten,  all  your  valiant  troops 
Fly  from  the  battle-field  in  shameless  haste. 
What  do  you  care,  that  countless  skeletons 
Lie  bleaching  on  the  bloody  fields  in  vain? 
You  do  not  mind  that  now  the  pride  of  France 
Will  bear  forever  this  disgraceful  stain, 
That  by  your  miserable  policy, 
A  noble  friend's  great  heart  must  bleed  and  break. 
What's  that  to  you !     Your  bosom  is  of  stone ! 
If  there  is  justice  still  in  heaven,  beware! 
Your  time  will  come,  when,  far  away  from  home, 
Scorned  and  forsaken,  you  will  die  alone. 
Cursed  be  the  moment  when  your  scheming  mind 
Entangled  Maximilian  in  your  plans ! 
Cursed  be  the  brain  that  spun  the  vile  intrigues! 
Woe  be  to  you  and  yours !     Your  name  shall  be 
Forgotten  and  destroyed  for  evermore ! 
Your  vicious  race  shall  disappear  from  earth! 

My  curse  on  you !     My  curse  on  all  your  house ! 
Napoleon.     An  icy  shock  has  paralyzed  my  limbs; 

I  cannot  move;  I  cannot  call  for  help! 

Carlotta.     You  cannot  call?     Well,  I  will  call  for  you. 

[She  calls.}     Come  in!     Come,  all  of  you  that  hear  my  voice! 
[Enter  the  Court,  through  various  doors. ,] 

Come  in,  and  see  the  man  that  I  have  cursed ! 

And  now,  see  there — see — Maximilian— 

His  manly  bearing  and  imperial  brow ! 

But  look— he  bleeds— his  breast  is  full  of  wounds! 

No;  still  he  fights,  and  leads  his  band  of  braves; 


While,  unconcerned,  the  troops  of  France  stand  by 

And  see  him  hopelessly  despair !     My  God ! 

The  enemy  has  overpowered  him ! — 

They  lead  him  off  to  execution !     Help  ! 

They  fire ! — my  head !  [She  breaks  down. 

Napoleon  [recovering  himself  \     Why  do  you  stand  and  stare? 
Do  you  not  see  the  woman  is  insane? 
Lead  her  away,  and  send  my  doctors  here. 

[Exit  Carlotta  and  Court '.] 

0  what  a  day!     Cowed  by  a  woman's  hate! 

1  feel  as  if  her  curse  had  sealed  my  fate. 


SCENE  VII. 
Queretaro  Cloister  Vaults. 

MAXIMILIAN,  at  the  right,  sleeping  in  a  coffin.     DR.   BASCH,  at 
the  left,  his  head  on  the  table.     SCHOOLMASTER. 

Schoolmaster  [setting  out  bread  and  water]. 
Yes,  so  it  goes.     Not  only  Art  alone, 
But  Science,  too,  must  stoop  to  work  for  bread; 
Take  me,  for  instance — prison  warden  now. 
My  elegance  of  style  is  sacrificed; 
But  times  are  hard,  and  no  one  cares  for  style. 
See,  there  he  lies,  exhausted,  pale  as  death, 
A  coffin  all  they  gave  him  for  a  bed. 
Who  would  have  thought,  a  little  while  ago, 
When  I  received  him  with  the  childrens'  choir, 
That  I  would  be  imperial  caterer, 


[99] 

Doorkeeper,  too,  and  valet,  all  in  one. 
He  moves,  he  is  awake ! 

Max.  Where  am  I  here  ? 

Already  in  my  coffin,  in  my  vault  ? 
Is  this  what  we  call  death,  and  what  seems  life, 
The  soul  alone,  that  rises,  feels,  and  thinks  ? 

Schoolmaster.     I  hope  your  Majesty  has  rested  well. 
Max.     That  is  not  Charon — but — who  are  you,  man  ? 
Schoolmaster.     The  prison  warden  of  your  Majesty. 
Max.     And  these  dark  walls  ? 

Schoolmaster.  Are  catacombs,  the  vaults 

Of  our  old  cloister,  and  your  prison  now; 
In  deep,  unconscious  trance  they  brought  you  here; 
They  could  not  find  a  better  place  at  once. 

Max.     So  I  am  further  still  condemned  to  live; 
I  hoped  to  sleep  my  last  eternal  sleep. 
There  is  my  faithful  doctor — let  him  sleep; 
He,  too,  is  tired  and  worn  by  overwork. 
Tell  me,  good  friend,  what  is  the  news  abroad  ? 
Empress  Carlotta,  have  they  heard  from  her  ? 

Schoolmaster.     The  prison  laws,  in  language  very  strict, 
Prohibit  talking  to  the  prisoners ; 
But  that,  I  think,  applies  alone  to  those 
Of  whom  repentance  is  expected  still. 

Max.     Speak,  my  good  man,  what  is  the  latest  news  ? 

Schoolmaster.     It  is  not  always  safe  to  trust  the  press, 
Because,  you  see,  good  reasons  may  prevail 
For  changing  facts,  by  pressure  from  above. 


Max.     O,  tell  me  what  you  know.     You  torture  me! 
For  many  days  I  have  not  heard  from  her. 

Schoolmaster.     The  papers  say  no  very  great  success 
Has  crowned  the  efforts  of  her  Majesty; 
And  that,  in  consequence 

Max.  Well,  what? 

Schoolmaster.  That  she — 

Well, — bodily  she  has  not  suffered  much. 

Max.     Poor  friend,  I  fear  you  are  of  unsound  mind. 

Schoolmaster.     Perhaps  I  am — and  yet,  perhaps  I'm  not; 
And,  if  I  were,  I  need  no  pity,  Sire. 
To  him,  bowed  down  and  crushed  by  wants  and  cares, 
Whom  even  Future  shows  no  glimpse  of  hope, 
To  him  it  is  a  blessing  when  his  mind 
Is  shrouded  in  a  gentle,  hazy  veil, 
That  helps  to  soothe  the  pains  of  memory. 

Max.     How  true  those  words,  though  spoken  by  a  fool ; 
To  hopeless  misery,  that  cannot  die, 
Insanity  must  be  a  welcome  friend. 

Schoolmaster.     Yes;  so  said  all  who  heard  the  Empress'  fate. 
Max.     "The  Empress'  fate  ?"    You  do  not  mean  to  say 

Schoolmaster. 
The  noble  mind  of  your  good  Empress  is 

Max.     No  more !     Do  not  pronounce  that  dreadful  word. 
My  God,  am  I  not  suffering  enough ! 

Schoolmaster.     As  you  divine  it,  I  need  say  no  more. 

{Exit. 
Max.     O,  Doctor,  say  it  is  not  true ! 


t   ioi   ] 

Basch  [awakening].  What  now? 

Max.     It  cannot  be,  that  my  beloved  wife, 
My  poor,  my  gentle  child,  has  lost  her  mind? 

Basch.     Who  dared  to  tell  your  Majesty  ? 

Max.  A  fool; 

And  fools  and  children  speak  the  truth,  they  say. 
You  sigh  in  silence?     O,  my  God,  my  God! 
That  breaks  the  thread  that  tied  me  to  this  life, 
And  reconciles  me  to  an  early  death. 
Will,  after  death,  in  yonder  better  world, 
I  surely  meet  again  my  darling  wife? 
And  will  her  mind  rise  freed  from  darkening  clouds, 
As  human  soul  throws  off  the  mortal  coil, 
That  I  may  see  her  as  in  by-gone  days, 
And  live  with  her  in  perfect  happiness  ? 
What  do  you  think  of  our  eternal  life? 

Basch.     I  wish  that  I  could  give  you  hope  and  trust; 
However,  what  we  call  man's  life  on  earth 
Is  struggling,  suffering,  never-ending  strife, 
For  that  perfection  which,  if  once  attained, 
Would  be  the  end  of  all  felicity. 
On  imperfection  happiness  depends; 
To  gratify  our  wants  is  greatest  bliss; 
Perfection  has  no  wants  to  gratify. 
Must  not  eternal  life  appear  to  us 
Eternal  struggle  and  eternal  woe — 
An  everlasting,  unrewarded  strife? 
It  seems  to  me  that  all  good  souls  deserve 
Eternal,  dreamless,  and  unconscious  rest. 


I02 

Max.     I  would  that  I  could  hear  the  Bishop's  views! 

Schoolmaster.     Sire,  Don  Benito  Juarez  has  arrived, 
And  asks  to  hold  an  interview  with  you. 

Max.     Must  I  endure  this,  too!     Well,  let  him  come; 
All  cares  seem  trifling  after  my  great  loss. 


SCENE  VIII. 
The  same.     JUAREZ. 

Juarez.     It  grieves  me  much  to  find  you,  Hapsburg,  here, 
And  I  am  sorry  that  you  ever  came, 
For,  when  you  came,  your  present  fate  was  sure. 

Max.     The  bitter  war,  this  iron  game  of  dice, 
Is  at  an  end,  and  your's  the  highest  throw. 

Juarez.     Much  better  call  the  game  an  iron  chess, 
For  all  the  moves  were  calculated  well. 
What  good  were  all  your  castles  and  your  knights, 
While  every  peon  stood  by  me  alone. 
You  lost  the  Bishop  early  in  the  game, 
And  towards  the  last  your  noble  Queen — 

Max.  Enough ! 

Have  you  come  here  to  taunt  me  cruelly? 

Juarez.     Not  that.     I  only  wished  to  show  how  wrong, 
How  foolish  was  your  venture  from  the  start. 
You  surely  could  not  entertain  the  hope 
To  build  a  firm,  successful  government 
Upon  foundations  soaked  in  human  blood! 


Max.     In  peace,  I  would  have  ruled  with  milder  hand 
Than  you  or  others  ever  did  before. 

Juarez.     A  people,  ripe  to  mould  their  government, 
Would  rather  yield  to  tyrants  of  their  choice 
Than  to  the  mildness  of  a  foreign  prince. 

Max.     But  just  that  ripeness  Mexicans  have  not. 

Juarez.     You  never  knew,  nor  tried  to  know,  these  men ; 
You  were  misguided  by  your  thirst  for  fame, 
And  you  were  ruled  where  you  supposed  you  ruled. 
If  in  my  hands  alone  I  held  your  fate, 
You  might  go  hence,  return  to  your  old  home, 
And  live,  a  warning  to  ambitious  kings ; 
But,  as  you  know,  court-martials  are  severe ; 
They  measure  you  by  your  own  measure  now: 
"All  who  are  found  with  weapons  in  their  hands 
"Resisting  law  and  government,  shall  be 
"Court-martialed — executed  on  the  spot." 
Who  is  now  "government?"     Who  broke  that  law? 

[Takes  the  sentence  from  a  soldier :] 
This  is  your  sentence;  read  the  words  yourself: 
"Mejia,  Maximilian,  Miramon, 
"Found  guilty  of  high  treason,  are  condemned 
"To  death,  and  hereby  sentenced  to  be  shot." 

[He  gives  the  sentence  to  Maximilian. 

Max.     Poor  friends! 

Juarez.  You  think  the  verdict  too  severe? 

Max.     Not  for  myself.     I  ask  no  better  fate 
Than  to  be  judged  by  laws  I  gave  myself; 
But  if  the  conquered  be  allowed  to  ask 


I04 

One  favor  of  his  conqueror's  good  grace, 
Have  mercy  on  my  faithful  followers, 
Who  pay  for  their  devotion  with  their  lives; 
Release  Mejia,  pardon  Miramon, 
And  take  my  blood  as  ransom  for  us  all. 

Juarez.     The  public  is  enraged  beyond  control ; 
If  I  should  try  to  save  your  friends  from  death, 
The  people's  wrath  would  slaughter  them  and  me. 
If  I  can  serve  you  otherwise 

Max.  No,  thanks. 

Juarez.     I  very  much  regret  you  ever  came. 
The  Lord  be  merciful  to  you.     Farewell!  {Exit  Juarez. 

Max.     So,  then,  my  fate  is  sealed,  my  life  is  doomed. 

Basch.     The  friends  at  home  will  surely  interfere; 
And,  after  some  resistance,  they  must  yield. 

Max.     No,  nothing  saves  my  life;  my  time  has  come. 
Farewell,  yon  hills  and  valleys  of  my  home, 
My  feet  will  tread  your  gentle  slopes  no  more; 
Farewell,  all  relatives  and  distant  friends ; 
Forgive  me  if  I  ever  did  you  wrong. 
Of  those  who  have  betrayed  my  confidence 
I  will  not  think  unkindly  at  my  death. 
O,  now  I  comprehend  the  Virgin's  words, 
That  in  my  vanity  I  misconceived : 
"A  mighty  kingdom  waits  for  thee,"  she  said; 
Yes,  yes;  the  mighty  kingdom  of  the  dead! 


SCENE  IX. 

Place  of  execution. 
PRINCE  ITURBIDE.     PRINCESS  ITURBIDE  (in  distress}. 

Prince  Iturbide.     Come,  dearest  aunt;  come,  let  us  go  away  ; 
Do  not  delay  in  such  a  fearful  place. 

Princess  Iturbide.     No;  I  will  stay;  I  want  to  see  it  all. 
Perhaps  my  overburdened  heart  will  break, 
And  end  the  tortures  of  a  ruined  life. 
Hark!     Is  the  terrible  procession  near? 

[She  sees  Porfirio  Diaz.] 
Quick  !     Stand  aside  !     I  fear  that  wicked  man  ! 


SCENE  X. 

Procession  (funeral  march}.  MAXIMILIAN,  MEJIA,  MIRAMON, 
their  Wives,  Miramon's  Children,  DR.  BASCH,  FATHER 
VISCHER,  LA  BASTIDA,  JUAREZ,  PORFIRIO,  Soldiers, 
People. 

Max.     O,  what  a  lovely  day,  so  pure  and  bright  ! 
I  always  wished  to  die  on  such  a  day, 
And  heaven  has  kindly  gratified  my  wish. 
[To  Basch.~\     To  my  old  mother  take  this  hat,  these  gloves, 
And  say  they  are  the  last  that  I  have  worn; 
And  she,  the  mother  of  a  Hapsburg,  will 
Much  rather  see  the  hat  without  the  son, 
Who  honorably  perished  at  his  post, 


Than,  with  the  hat,  receive  a  son  disgraced. 
And  my  poor  wife—  the  Lord  has  spared  her  this! 

Officer.     If  you  desire  to  speak,  now  is  the  time. 

Mejia.     At  my  ripe  age,  the  pleasures  of  this  life 
Can  have  for  me  no  more  attraction  now. 
I  have  so  often  looked  death  in  the  face, 
That  all  its  terrors  do  not  touch  my  heart. 
However,  I  protest  most  solemnly, 
Before  the  Lord  and  all  these  witnesses, 
Against  a  court  that  had  no  right  to  judge,— 
Not  us,  much  less  a  crowned,  imperial  head. 
You  are  not  judges — simply  murderers : 
This  consciousness  shall  follow  you  till  death; 
Confound  your  thoughts  with  guilty  shame  by  day, 
And  rouse  your  fears  with  ghastly  dreams  by  night, 
When  by  your  beds  we  rise  in  bloody  shrouds 
And  shake  our  warning  hands  in  mournful  threat; 
Thus  you  will  be  far  more  condemned  than  we, 
Who  peacefully  repose  from  work  and  strife. 
I  feel  my  conscience  free !     On  you  my  blood ! 

Miramon.     The  old  may  have  a  just  contempt  for  life; 
But  I  am  young!     I  have  my  wife  and  child: 
Be  merciful,  and  pardon  my  misdeeds, 
That  I  may  further  care  for  those  I  love, 
For  they  must  starve,  unless  I  can  provide. 
I  promise,  and  I  swear  upon  my  oath, 
To  never  raise  my  hand  against  this  State. 
We  all  will  wander  far  away  from  here, 
And  seek  a  home  in  distant  foreign  lands. 

{He  takes  the  child's  hand.] 


What  are  all  realms  to  me,  compared  to  this 
One  tiny  finger  of  this  little  hand ! 
Oh !     Do  not  let  me  die !     Pray  let  me  live ! 
Spare  me!     O,  spare  me!  for  the  sake  of  these! 

Max.     We  all  must  die,  poor  friend;  there  is  no  hope. 

Officer.     Your  pardon,  Majesty :  forgive  me,  all, 
That  I  must  be  your  executioner. 

Max.     You  are  a  soldier,  and  you  must  obey; 
Give  me  your  hand,  and  do  your  duty  then. 
And  you  [to  Soldiers],  accept  my  last,  though  trifling  gift, 
[gives  money\  And  aim,  I  beg  of  you,  right  at  the  heart. 
To  all  of  you,  who  have  come  out  to-day 
To  be  the  witnesses  of  our  near  death, 
I  swear  to  you,  and  call  the  Lord  above 
To  witness  that  I  tried  to  serve  you  well; 
And,  whether  cruel  I  appeared,  or  weak, 
I  had  at  heart  the  welfare  of  the  State. 
I  much  regret  that  I  had  not  the  chance 
To  prove  to  you  by  deeds  these  sentiments; 
Believe  my  word,  then,  in  this  solemn  hour, 
That  my  intentions  have  been  pure  and  just; 
And  if  great  Providence,  that  guides  us  all, — 
If  history,  or  the  development 
Of  Mexico,  demanded  this  ordeal, 
I  am  prepared  to  sacrifice  my  life. 
O,  how  I  wish  this  blood  might  be  the  last 
That  must  be  shed  for  this  afflicted  land ! 
And  may  these  acres,  fertilized  with  blood, 
Produce,  some  day,  three  flowers  rich  and  rare — 


The  flowers'  names  are:  "Justice,  Freedom,  Peace!" 

Could  I  take  that  conviction  to  my  grave, 

I  would  give  up  my  life  most  readily 

For  my  beloved  second  fatherland, 

Which  I  have  learned  to  love  in  short  success 

And  long  distress.     Farewell  to  all  of  you. 

Hurrah  for  freedom !     Long  live  Mexico ! 

{Maximilian,   Mejia  and  Miramon   are   led  off  into  the 
wings  to  be  executed.     Peal  of  bells. 

Basch.     Have  mercy!     Pardon  them!     Still  there  is  time! 
Father  Vischer. 
O,  do  not  judge,  that  you  may  not  be  judged. 

Juarez.     I  do  not  judge,  and  he  is  not  condemned; 
The  spirit  of  the  times  dooms  tyranny. 
Let  tyrants  rule  old  worlds  beyond  the  sea, 
The  new  world  glories  in  her  liberty. 

\La  Bastida  raises  the  crucifix.  The  officer  raises  and 
drops  his  sword,  instead  of  verbal  command.  Three 
volleys  are  fired,  while  the  curtain  drops. 


OP 

UIIVERSITT 


THE    END. 


U.C.BERKELEY  LIBRARIES 


/6792 


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